THUNDER JAMS AND LONG SHOTS IN THE ACBF SENIOR CLASSIC

Edgewood, OH- In an electrifying showcase of talent and sportsmanship, the Ashtabula County Senior All-Star game brought together the finest seniors from across the region. Divided into two teams, Team Bowser (Orange) and Team Bowler (Black), the seniors treated fans to a game filled with excitement and high-level basketball.

QUARTER SCORES
1st Half: Team Bowser (Orange) 69 – Team Bowler (Black) 68
2nd Half: Team Bowser (Orange) 72 – Team Bowler (Black) 77

Final: Team Bowser (Orange) 130 – Team Bowler (Black) 128

Team Bowser (Orange) Total Points:

  • Brady Andrejack (Edgewood): 9
  • Connor Mead (Lakeside): 16
  • Caydense Wiser (Pymatuning Valley): 7
  • Blake Krznaric (Pymatuning Valley): 15
  • Alex DiSalvatore (Lakeside): 20
  • Jacob Ernst (Edgewood): 22
  • Logan Kray (Edgewood): 15
  • Zane Neczeporenko (Pymatuning Valley): 26

This highly anticipated event, organized by the Ashtabula County Basketball Foundation, brought together the best of the best from the county’s high school basketball teams. Coached by two esteemed mentors, Edgewood’s John Bowler and Geneva’s Eric Bowser, the game was a testament to the talent and dedication of these young athletes.

During halftime, the crowd was treated to an exhilarating 3-point contest, won by Conneaut’s Chance Loomis, who showcased his sharpshooting skills by knocking down an incredible 27 3-pointers in just 2 minutes.

The player of the game honors were also awarded to Conneaut’s Chance Loomis, who delivered a standout performance with 31 points. Loomis’s scoring prowess and leadership on the court were instrumental in keeping Team Bowser competitive throughout the game.

From thunderous dunks by Aiden Hathy, Joey DeGeorge, Jerry Arrington, and Jacob Ernst to jaw-dropping long-range shots by Peyton Williams and Trevor Clute, the game featured a dazzling array of skills and highlights.

Overall, the All-Star game served as a fitting tribute to the hard work and talent of the Ashtabula County seniors. It was a memorable sendoff for these exceptional athletes as they embark on the next chapter of their basketball journeys.

ACBF SENIOR GIRLS GAME SHOWCASES ASHTABULA’S BEST

Edgewood, OH- In a thrilling display of talent and camaraderie, the Ashtabula County Senior All-Star game showcased the best of girls’ basketball in the region. Divided into two teams, Team Vencill (Orange) and Team Iarocci (Black), the seniors put on a show for the enthusiastic crowd.

QUARTER SCORES
1st Half: Team Vencill (Orange) 33 – Team Iarocci (Black) 26
2nd Half: Team Vencill (Orange) 25 – Team Iarocci (Black) 25

Team Vencill (Orange) Total Points:

  • Kayla Farley (Conneaut): 8
  • Chloe Freeman (Grand Valley): 9
  • McKenna Vencill (Edgewood): 17
  • Delaney Morrison (Geneva): 8
  • Morgan Crawford (Grand Valley): 4
  • Brooke Richmond (Geneva): 6
  • Maddy McDonald (Edgewood): 2
  • Katie McCollister (Edgewood): 4

Team Iarocci (Black) Total Points:

  • Alyssa Cevera (St. John): 17
  • Grace DiSalvatore (St. John): 3
  • Kaelyn Hart (Grand Valley): 6
  • Moharrah Jackson (Geneva): 13
  • Dixie Miller (Grand Valley): 10
  • Lanie Torrance (Lakeside): 2

The game, coached by Edgewood’s Randy Vencill and Ashtabula County legend Nic Iarocci, showcased the incredible talent and sportsmanship of the seniors. Despite the competitive nature of the game, it was evident that the players cherished the opportunity to share the court with their fellow seniors.

During halftime, the crowd was treated to an exciting 3-point contest, won by Geneva’s Brook Richmond, who showcased her sharpshooting skills by knocking down an impressive 36 3-pointers in just 2 minutes.

The player of the game honors went to Edgewood’s McKenna Vencill, who delivered a stellar performance with 17 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists. Vencill’s versatility and leadership on the court were instrumental in securing the victory for Team Vencill.

Overall, the All-Star game served as a fitting tribute to the hard work and dedication of the Ashtabula County seniors throughout their high school careers. It was a wonderful sendoff for these talented athletes as they transition to the next chapter of their lives.

LONGHORNS STAMPEDE PAST FALCONS IN DISTRICTS

North Ridgeville, OH- In a hard-fought battle on the court, the Jefferson Falcons faced off against the Lutheran West Longhorns in the OHSAA playoffs district semifinal, ultimately falling short with a final score of 44-65.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 9 | 15 | 5 | 15 = 44
Lutheran West: 10 | 19 | 21 | 15 = 65

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Joey DeGeorge: 14
  • Anthony Covetta: 12
  • Dylan Beebe: 10
  • Robbie Pisano: 5
  • Joel Navarro: 2
  • Terry Brown: 1

Lutheran West Total Points:

  • Jayson Levis: 21
  • Tino Yli-Junnila: 15
  • Matt Meyer: 8
  • Josh Meyer: 8
  • Dylan Bartchok: 7
  • Nick Parker: 6

Despite a valiant effort by the Falcons, led by standout performances from Joey DeGeorge, Anthony Covetta, and Dylan Beebe, they were unable to overcome the formidable Lutheran West squad. DeGeorge led the Falcons’ scoring with 14 points, followed closely by Covetta with 12 points and Beebe with 10 points. However, the Falcons faced a tough defensive challenge from Lutheran West, which limited their offensive opportunities throughout the game.

On the other side, Lutheran West showcased their offensive prowess, with Jayson Levis leading the charge with 21 points, followed by Tino Yli-Junnila with 15 points. The Longhorns’ balanced scoring attack, coupled with their strong defensive performance, proved to be the difference-maker in securing the victory and advancing to the district championship game.

While the Falcons’ season comes to an end with this loss, they can look back on a season filled with remarkable achievements and milestones. Notably, both senior Joey DeGeorge and junior Anthony Covetta reached the impressive milestone of 1,000 career points, highlighting their outstanding contributions to the team.

As for Lutheran West, they will now prepare to face the winner of the Rocky River Pirates vs. Howland Tigers game in the district championship game. With their strong performance in the semifinal matchup, the Longhorns are poised to continue their postseason success and vie for the district title.

JEFFERSON BEATS BENGALS IN OVERTIME THRILLER

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Jefferson, OH- In a nail-biting showdown, the Jefferson Falcons soared to victory over the Benedictine Bengals in a thrilling overtime battle, clinching a hard-fought win with a final score of 71-59.

QUARTER SCORES
Jefferson Falcons: 19 | 15 | 10 | 10 | 17 = 71
Benedictine Bengals: 12 | 12 | 11 | 14 | 10 = 59

Jefferson Falcons Total Points:

  • Anthony Covetta: 27
  • Joey DeGeorge: 25
  • Joel Navarro: 13
  • Robbie Pisano: 3
  • Dylan Beebe: 2
  • Terry Brown: 1

Benedictine Bengals Total Points:

  • Kris Smith: 23
  • John Horn: 16
  • Makell Byrd: 13
  • Damone Darmond: 5
  • Bryce Meitan: 3
  • Noah Whistler: 2
  • Matthew Torres: 2

The Falcons’ victory was marked by an incredible display of determination and resilience, with senior Joey DeGeorge delivering a clutch performance when it mattered most. DeGeorge’s last-second three-pointer at the end of regulation sent the game into overtime, igniting the crowd and propelling the Falcons to victory.

Leading the charge for the Falcons were Anthony Covetta and Joey DeGeorge, who combined for an impressive 52 points. Their stellar offensive contributions, coupled with Joel Navarro’s 13 points, proved instrumental in securing the win for the Falcons.

Despite the Bengals’ formidable efforts, led by Kris Smith with 23 points and John Horn with 16 points, they ultimately fell short in overtime. The Falcons’ relentless determination and clutch performances proved to be the deciding factor in this intense playoff matchup.

With this thrilling victory, the Jefferson Falcons advance to the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Lutheran West Longhorns. Riding high on the momentum of their overtime triumph, the Falcons look to continue their postseason success and advance further in the playoffs.

As for the Benedictine Bengals, their season comes to an end with this hard-fought loss in the sectional final.

FALCONS FLY BY MUSTANGS

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas

Hillsdale, OH- In a hard-fought playoff battle, the Grand Valley Mustangs faced off against the Hillsdale Falcons, but ultimately fell short with a final score of 70-54. Despite a valiant effort from the Mustangs, the Falcons’ offensive firepower proved to be too much to handle.

QUARTER SCORES
Grand Valley Mustangs: 12 | 10 | 15 | 17 = 54
Hillsdale Falcons: 19 | 16 | 17 | 18 = 70

Grand Valley Mustangs Total Points:

  • Braden Hart: 22
  • Jerry Arrington: 15
  • Bobby Roger: 8
  • Sammy Goforth: 5
  • Payton Plizga: 4

Hillsdale Falcons Total Points:

  • Troy Bennett: 23
  • Braylon Jaris: 19
  • Brian Knichbaum: 18
  • Jack Fickes: 5
  • Gabe Stack: 3
  • Hayden McFadden: 2

Despite facing a formidable opponent in the Falcons, the Mustangs showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. Led by Braden Hart’s impressive performance with 22 points, the Mustangs fought hard to keep pace with the Falcons’ offensive onslaught.

However, the Falcons proved to be a tough challenge, with Troy Bennett leading the charge with an outstanding 23-point performance. Supported by Braylon Jaris and Brian Knichbaum, who contributed 19 and 18 points respectively, the Falcons maintained their lead throughout the game.

Despite the loss, the Mustangs had several standout moments to celebrate this season, including senior Jerry Arrington’s achievement as the all-time leader in rebounds for Grand Valley. Although their playoff journey comes to an end with this defeat, the Mustangs can take pride in their hard work and dedication throughout the season.

As for the Hillsdale Falcons, their victory propels them into the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face off against the Warren JFK Eagles. With their potent offensive attack and resilient defense, the Falcons look to continue their postseason success and advance further in the playoffs.

WARRIORS ON FIRE IN SECTIONAL FINAL WIN

East Ashtabula, OH- In a thrilling sectional final showdown, the Edgewood Warriors delivered a commanding performance against the Gilmour Academy Lancers, securing a resounding victory with a final score of 77-57. Led by the stellar scoring efforts of Jacob Ernst and Peyton Williams, the Warriors showcased their offensive prowess and defensive tenacity throughout the game.

QUARTER SCORES
Edgewood Warriors: 16 | 16 | 24 | 21 = 77
Gilmour Academy Lancers: 4 | 10 | 14 | 29 = 57

Edgewood Warriors Total Points:

  • Jacob Ernst: 41
  • Peyton Williams: 14
  • Brady Andrejack: 8
  • Logan Kray: 6
  • Mason Thorr: 4
  • Russell Thomas: 4

Gilmour Academy Lancers Total Points:

  • Jimmy Lawless: 10
  • Nick Iliano: 9
  • Tim Lee: 8
  • Kenn Flaherty: 8
  • David Pfundstein: 6
  • Zae Titas: 6
  • Brady Olson: 5
  • Tanner Deweese: 2
  • Kingston Seeles: 2
  • Brayden Titas: 1

From the opening tip-off, Jacob Ernst demonstrated his scoring prowess, delivering a dominant performance that set the tone for the game. With an explosive first quarter, Ernst showcased his sharpshooting abilities, knocking down five 3-pointers and contributing 14 points to the Warriors’ early lead. Peyton Williams also displayed his shooting skills, adding to the Warriors’ offensive onslaught with four 3-pointers of his own.

Despite the Lancers’ efforts to mount a comeback in the second and third quarters, the Warriors maintained their composure and continued to control the tempo of the game. With a balanced offensive attack and stifling defense, the Warriors extended their lead heading into the final quarter.

In the fourth quarter, the Warriors showcased their resilience and determination, fending off a late surge from the Lancers to secure the sectional championship victory. With Jacob Ernst leading the charge with an impressive 41-point performance, the Warriors celebrated their well-deserved triumph on the court.

With this victory, the Edgewood Warriors (18-5) clinch the sectional championship title and advance to the district semifinals of the OHSAA playoffs. They will await the winner of the Notre Dame Cathedral Latin Lions vs. Geneva Eagles game as they continue their postseason journey.

As for the Gilmour Academy Lancers (15-9), their season comes to an end with this loss in the sectional final.

WARRIORS HISTORIC SEASON COMES TO END IN DISTRICTS

Peninsula, OH- In a hard-fought district semi-final matchup, the Edgewood Warriors faced off against the Aurora Greenmen in a game filled with anticipation and determination. Despite a strong effort from the Warriors, led by Katie McCollister’s double-digit scoring performance, they were unable to secure the victory, ultimately falling short with a final score of 29-39.

QUARTER SCORES
Edgewood Warriors: 6 | 10 | 6 | 7 = 29
Aurora Greenmen: 7 | 5 | 20 | 7 = 39

Edgewood Warriors Total Points:

  • Katie McCollister: 11
  • Mckenna Vencill: 9
  • Carly Kray: 4
  • Avery Vencill: 2
  • Annie Johnston: 2
  • Leigha Guyton: 1

Aurora Greenmen Total Points:

  • Sam Stask: 13
  • Madison Wiiting: 9
  • Kailey Feckner: 8
  • Brooke Pierce: 4
  • Brooke Manay: 4
  • Julia Miller: 1

Despite the loss, the Warriors displayed resilience and determination throughout the game, showcasing the competitive spirit that defined their historic season. Led by Katie McCollister’s impressive scoring performance, the Warriors fought hard against a tough Greenmen squad.

However, the Greenmen proved to be a formidable opponent, particularly in the third quarter where they outscored the Warriors by 14 points. Despite the Warriors’ efforts to rally in the fourth quarter, they were unable to overcome the deficit, ultimately falling short in their quest for victory.

With this loss, the Edgewood Warriors conclude their season with a final record of 20-2, marking a historic season for the program. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Warriors can take pride in their accomplishments, including winning the first conference title in school history and achieving the most wins in school history.

As for the Aurora Greenmen, they advance to the district finals of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Gilmour Academy Lancers. With their hard-fought victory over the Warriors, the Greenmen look to carry their momentum forward and continue their postseason journey.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Warriors had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game, leaving everything on the court in their pursuit of victory. As they reflect on their season, the Warriors will look to build upon their successes and lessons learned, setting the stage for future achievements on the basketball court.

DRAGONS FOUGHT THE LAW AND THE LAW WON

Photo Credit: CM Photography

In a spirited playoff battle, the Lakeside Dragons faced off against the John Marshall Lawyers in a game filled with intensity and determination. Despite a strong performance from junior guard Dyln Newsome, who made history with his remarkable 3-point shooting, the Dragons were unable to secure the victory, ultimately falling short with a final score of 62-74.

QUARTER SCORES
Lakeside Dragons: 14 | 6 | 21 | 21 = 62
John Marshall Lawyers: 18 | 15 | 20 | 21 = 74

Lakeside Dragons Total Points:

  • Dyln Newsome: 25
  • Aiden Hathy: 13
  • Alex DiSalvatore: 12
  • Connor Mead: 5
  • Chase Newsome: 4
  • Jarez Osborne: 3

John Marshall Lawyers Total Points:

  • Jarvion Williams: 22
  • Reece Green: 11
  • Drevontae Jeffries: 8
  • Willie Wilson: 8
  • Jaiden Taylor: 8
  • Tylan Richardson: 6
  • Markell Harris: 4
  • Lindzell Curry: 2
  • Dominic Taylor: 2
  • Tra’Sean Artist: 2
  • Jamarrion Banks: 1

Despite the loss, Dyln Newsome’s outstanding performance was a standout highlight for the Dragons. Newsome made history this season by breaking both the all-time single-game 3-point shot record with 13 and the single-season record with 54. Strong showings from Newsome, Hathy and DiSalvatore were instrumental in keeping the Dragons competitive throughout the game. Newsome caught fire in the second half knocking down 5 3-pointers and Hathy kept the crowd on their feet with a few big dunks throughout the game.

However, the Lawyers proved to be a formidable opponent, with standout performances from Jarvion Williams, who led the team with 22 points, and a balanced scoring effort from several players contributing to the victory.

With this loss, the Lakeside Dragons conclude their season with a final record of 5-16. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Dragons can take pride in the many bright spots throughout their season and the opportunity for their underclassmen to gain valuable experience on the court.

As for the John Marshall Lawyers, they advance to the next round of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Garfield Heights Bulldogs. With their hard-fought victory over the Dragons, the Lawyers look to carry their momentum forward and continue their postseason journey.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Dragons had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game, leaving everything on the court in their pursuit of victory. As they reflect on their season, the Dragons will look to build upon their successes and lessons learned, setting the stage for future achievements on the basketball court.

COUGARS POUNCE ON LAKERS IN OHSAA PLAYOFFS

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers

Andover, OH- In a hard-fought sectional round matchup, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers faced off against the Lake Catholic Cougars in a game filled with intensity and determination. Despite a valiant effort from standout player Blake Krznaric, the Lakers were unable to secure the victory, ultimately falling short with a final score of 59-64.

QUARTER SCORES
Pymatuning Valley Lakers: 16 | 6 | 16 | 21 = 59
Lake Catholic Cougars: 15 | 10 | 18 | 21 = 64

Pymatuning Valley Lakers Total Points:

  • Blake Krznaric: 20
  • Caydence Wiser: 7
  • Zane Neczporenko: 10
  • Seth Bryan: 6
  • Trevor Clute: 3
  • Brady Tisch: 2
  • Ryan Croston: 11

Lake Catholic Cougars Total Points:

  • Peterlin: 24
  • Pellecchia: 15
  • Budrys-Rini: 14
  • Nimmo: 4
  • Rozman: 4
  • Trinetti: 3

Despite facing a tough opponent, the Lakers showcased their resilience throughout the game, led by Blake Krznaric with an impressive 20 points. Krznaric’s leadership and scoring prowess were instrumental in keeping the Lakers competitive against the Cougars.

However, the Cougars proved to be a formidable adversary, with standout performances from Peterlin, who led the team with 24 points, and Pellecchia, who contributed 15 points. Despite the Lakers’ efforts, they were unable to contain the Cougars’ offensive firepower in the final moments of the game.

With this loss, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers conclude their season with a final record of 17-6. Despite the disappointment of the defeat, the Lakers can take pride in their successful season, which included notable victories and the milestone achievement of Blake Krznaric reaching 1,000 career points as a Laker.

As for the Lake Catholic Cougars, they advance to the next round of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Campbell Memorial Red Devils in the sectional final on 3/1/24. With their hard-fought victory over the Lakers, the Cougars look to carry their momentum forward and continue their postseason journey.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Lakers had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game, leaving everything on the court in their pursuit of victory. As they reflect on their season, the Lakers will look to build upon their successes and lessons learned, setting the stage for future achievements on the basketball court.

MAPLEWOOD ROCKETS PAST HERALDS IN SECTIONAL

Photo Credit: Mickey Zheng Photography

In a challenging playoff encounter, the St. John Heralds battled against the Maplewood Rockets but ultimately fell short with a final score of 52-81. Despite a valiant effort from standout player Vin Narducci, the Heralds struggled to contain the Rockets’ offensive onslaught throughout the game.

QUARTER SCORES
St. John Heralds: 9 | 19 | 14 | 10 = 52
Maplewood Rockets: 26 | 25 | 16 | 14 = 81

St. John Heralds Total Points:

  • Vin Narducci: 26
  • Anthony Severino: 9
  • Aaron Wychock: 7
  • AJ Henslee: 4
  • Donald Crawford: 2

Maplewood Rockets Total Points:

  • Alex Donaldson: 31
  • Brandon Hoffstetter: 16
  • Andrew Barnett: 12
  • Seth Roper: 7
  • Brighton Roper: 4
  • Andrew Donaldson: 3
  • Jimmy Stander: 3
  • Tom Dahman: 3
  • Ethan Nevinski: 2

Despite facing a significant deficit, Vin Narducci led the charge for the Heralds with an impressive 26 points, showcasing his offensive prowess and determination on the court. However, the Rockets’ strong defensive efforts limited the Heralds’ scoring opportunities throughout the game.

For the Rockets, Alex Donaldson delivered a standout performance with an impressive 31 points, leading his team to victory. Brandon Hoffstetter added 16 points, while Andrew Barnett contributed 12 points, highlighting the Rockets’ balanced offensive attack.

With this loss, the St. John Heralds conclude their season with a final record of 3-19. Although their playoff journey has come to an end, the Heralds can take pride in their efforts throughout the season and look to build upon their success in the future.

As for the Maplewood Rockets, they advance to the next round of the OHSAA playoffs, where they will face the Warren JFK Eagles in the sectional final on 3/1/24. With their dominant performance against the Heralds, the Rockets will look to carry their momentum forward and make a statement in the postseason.

Although the outcome may not have been what the Heralds had hoped for, they showcased determination and resilience throughout the game. As they reflect on their season, the Heralds will look to learn and grow from their experiences, setting the stage for future success on the court.