Tag Archive for: Girls

BOARDMAN’S SEASON ENDS AT DISTRICTS

/in /by

PERRY, OH- In a hard-fought battle at Perry High School, the Boardman Spartans girls basketball team concluded their season in the District Semi-Final, falling short against Rocky River with a final score of 51-42. Despite facing an uphill battle throughout the game, the Spartans showcased resilience and determination, leaving everything on the court until the final buzzer.

The first half proved to be a tough challenge for the Spartans, as they struggled to find their rhythm and trailed by 23 points heading into halftime. However, halftime served as a rallying point for the team, igniting a fiery determination to fight back and give it their all in the second half.

With unwavering heart and tenacity, the Spartans mounted an impressive comeback, cutting Rocky River’s lead to just 7 points with under four minutes remaining in the game. Despite their valiant efforts, they couldn’t close the gap further, ultimately falling short by a 9-point margin.

Leading the charge for the Spartans was Mackenzie Riccitelli, who delivered a stellar performance with 20 points and 4 steals. M.C. Werth showcased her sharpshooting skills, contributing 9 points, including three crucial 3-pointers. Sarah Bero made her presence felt on both ends of the court, tallying 6 points and grabbing 8 rebounds.

Sam Duble, Ava Freeborough, and Tori Strines also made important contributions to the team’s effort, while Mikayla Rivera provided valuable minutes off the bench. As the final buzzer sounded, seniors Sam Duble, Mackenzie Riccitelli, and M.C. Werth bid farewell to the court, leaving behind a legacy of dedication and leadership.

Despite the outcome, the Spartans achieved remarkable success throughout the season, boasting a 19-win record, securing an outright AAC Championship, and making a memorable run in the District Tournament. Their contributions to the program will be cherished and remembered for years to come, serving as an inspiration to future generations of Spartans.

JACKSON MILTON GIRLS BASKETBALL COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH JEFF WILSON

/in /by

NORTH JACKSON, OH-  In the latest episode of YSN’s Coach’s Corner, host DJ Yokley sat down with the head basketball coach of the Jackson Milton Lady Blue Jay basketball team, Jeff Wilson. The conversation was centered around the team’s recent victory in the sectional win and the challenges they’ve faced over the years.

The interview highlighted the triumphs and struggles of the team, shedding light on their journey to success. Coach Wilson shared his pride and joy for the hardworking kids and the thrill of experiencing a varsity tournament win for the first time as a head coach.

Throughout the interview, Wilson expressed gratitude for the unwavering support from the Jackson Milton community, parents, and the school administration. He emphasized the importance of perseverance and embracing challenges, drawing from his personal experiences to impart valuable life lessons to his players and his children.

Despite the adversity faced, Coach Wilson’s determination and commitment to the team were evident as he reflected on the progress and growth of the players, emphasizing the importance of attitude, effort, and maintaining a positive mindset.

As the episode concluded, the interview revealed not only the coach’s dedication to the game but also the profound impact he has made on the lives of the players and the community.

The podcast episode served as a fitting tribute to the coach, acknowledging his resilience and leadership, and inspiring those who listened to persevere through life’s challenges.

The Jackson Milton Lady Blue Jay basketball team’s victory stands as a testament to their perseverance, hard work, and the unwavering support of their coach.

PRESENTED BY

SALEM TAMES WILDCATS IN OPENING ROUND

/in /by

SALEM, OH- In a local  OHSAA tournament showdown, the 30th-ranked Lady Quakers triumphed over the 39th-ranked Struthers with a solid 49-38 victory, securing their ticket to the second round.

Rylee Hutton emerged as the star of the game, delivering an impressive performance with a game-high 29 points, leading her team to victory. Adding to the Quakers’ success, Lauryn Barton contributed 8 points, playing a pivotal role in securing the win.  Hutton is 11 points shy of the 1000 career point mark heading into the second round.

Despite the efforts of the Struthers squad, led by Gianna Martin’s 17 points and Emma Morris’ 10, they couldn’t overcome the Lady Quakers’ determined play.

Looking ahead, the Lady Quakers now set their sights on a challenging match-up against the #14 seed Perry Pirates. The showdown is set for Saturday, February 24th, at 1pm at Perry, promising to be an exciting clash between two formidable teams as the tournament action heats up.

QUAKERS START SLOW, FINISH STRONG AGAINST SPRINGFIELD

/in /by

NEW MIDDLETOWN, OH- It’s all about setting the pace, and for Salem- it took being on the wrong end of a Springfield 5-0 run to wake the jumpshots, and go on a 14-0 run themselves to finish to the tune of 56-33.

Led by standout performances from Rylee Hutton, who commanded the court with a game-high 22 points, and Lauren Barton, who contributed 11 points to the scoreboard, the Lady Quakers showcased their offensive prowess and teamwork throughout the game. Their dynamic play and strategic execution propelled Salem to a decisive victory, capping off their regular season on a high note.

Despite facing a formidable opponent, the  Lady Tigers demonstrated resilience and determination throughout the contest. Jameka Brungard led the charge with an impressive 14 points, while Ava Vecchione contributed 10 points to the Lady Tigers’ efforts. Despite their valiant performance, the Lady Tigers were unable to overcome Salem’s relentless offensive attack and suffocating defense.

With the regular season now concluded, the Lady Tigers look ahead with optimism and determination as they prepare for postseason play. Despite the setback, the team remains focused on their goals and committed to making a strong showing in the upcoming playoffs.

Salem finishes their regular season campaign on Saturday against Austintown Fitch.

BOARDMAN HSGBB COACH’S CORNER (EP 2) WITH JEFF HAMMERTON

/in /by

BOARDMAN, OH- The Boardman High School Girls Basketball team, led by Head Coach Jeff Hammerton, has clinched the AAC championship, marking an outstanding accomplishment for the team and its dedicated seniors.

Coach Hammerton reflected on the journey, emphasizing the importance of building a strong program and getting players on board at all levels. He praised the significant progress made by the team, underscoring their determination and hard work throughout the season.

The coach acknowledged the fiercely competitive nature of the AAC, highlighting the narrow margins of victory and the grit displayed by each team. Despite facing challenges, the Boardman Ladies Spartans secured an impressive season record, finishing strong amidst tough competition.

Delving into the unique qualities of the senior players, Coach Hammerton expressed deep admiration for each of them. From overcoming injuries to achieving remarkable scoring milestones, the seniors have left an indelible mark on the program.

DJ Yokley, the host of the YSN podcast, commended Coach Hammerton and the team, expressing gratitude for their contributions to high school sports. With the anticipation of playoffs ahead, the Boardman High School Girls Basketball team is poised for further success, fueled by their unwavering determination and collaborative spirit.

The YSN podcast will continue to follow the team’s journey, providing in-depth coverage of their ongoing achievements and the inspiring leadership demonstrated by Coach Hammerton and the players.

PRESENTED BY

BOARDMAN TAKES COMMAND OF AAC

/in /by

BOARDMAN, OH- In a nail-biting showdown that kept fans on the edge of their seats, the Boardman High School girls’ basketball team clinched a remarkable victory over the Austintown Fitch Falcons, emerging triumphant with a 56-44 win in overtime. The Spartans showcased resilience, determination, and skill, securing their fifth consecutive win in a season marked by outstanding performances.

The game unfolded as a fierce battle from the outset, with both teams demonstrating their prowess on the court. Despite facing a challenging deficit of three points with merely 30 seconds remaining, the Spartans refused to concede defeat. Mackenzie Riccitelli, a standout player of the evening, stepped up under pressure, sinking a crucial free throw. However, it was her remarkable playmaking ability that stole the spotlight, as she delivered a flawless no-look pass to Sarah Bero, igniting fervor among the Boardman faithful and forcing the game into overtime.

The overtime period witnessed a dominant display from the Spartans, who outscored the Falcons 16-4, ultimately sealing a commanding 12-point victory. Riccitelli’s performance was nothing short of spectacular, as she matched her career-high with 28 points while contributing 6 assists, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals, showcasing her versatility and impact on the court.

Sarah Bero complemented Riccitelli’s stellar performance with 10 points and an impressive 8 rebounds, exemplifying the Spartans’ depth and resilience as a team. M.C. Werth displayed her scoring prowess, tallying 9 points, including a pivotal three-pointer, while Ava Freeborough and Sam Duble made significant contributions from beyond the arc, adding 6 and 3 points respectively to the scoreboard.

Notably, Mikayla Rivera and Tori Strines provided crucial minutes off the bench, underscoring the team’s collective effort and unity in pursuit of victory. With this triumph, the Spartans enhance their season record to an impressive 13-4, reaffirming their status as a force to be reckoned with in the AAC.

For Fitch, Senior Destanie McCollough led the Lady Falcons with 11 points with Kylie Folkwein scoring 10. Rachel Spalding chipped in with 7 while seniors Ayla Ray and Lannie Henning each finished with 5. Kaelyn Bower and Dasiyia Donlow had 3 points apiece to round out the scoring.

Looking ahead, the Boardman girls’ basketball team remains focused and determined as they prepare for their upcoming encounter against East High School on Monday night. As they hit the road once again, the Spartans are poised to continue their winning streak, fueled by the passion, dedication, and unwavering support of their fans.

 

YSN HSGBB TOP 25 RELEASED FOR 1/24/24

/in /by

EAST PALESTINE, OH- As the high school basketball season continues to unfold, the Your Sports Network (YSN) Power Rankings provide a comprehensive overview of the top 25 teams in the region. The rankings are determined by various factors, including the Rating Percentage Index (RPI), winning percentage (WP), opponent winning percentage (OWP), and opponent’s opponent winning percentage (OOWP) as well as recent performance.

1. Archbishop Hoban (Akron)
– **RPI:** 0.721562
– **WP:** 0.866667
– **OWP:** 0.66083
– **OOWP:** 0.574419
– **W/L:** 13-2

2. Edgewood (Ashtabula)
– **RPI:** 0.715708
– **WP:** 1.000
– **OWP:** 0.525102
– **OOWP:** 0.527691
– **W/L:** 13-0

 3. Crestview (Columbiana)
– **RPI:** 0.67789
– **WP:** 1.000
– **OWP:** 0.423489
– **OOWP:** 0.518673
– **W/L:** 18-0

4. West Branch (Beloit) – 0.675868

5. Boardman (Youngstown) – 0.657206

6. Columbiana – 0.655372

7. Badger (Kinsman) – 0.627107

8. John F. Kennedy Catholic (Warren) – 0.626759

9. Mineral Ridge – 0.626306

10. Howland (Warren) – 0.635695

11. Poland Seminary (Poland) – 0.591082

12. Austintown-Fitch (Youngstown) – 0.620001

13. Champion (Warren) – 0.605771

14. LaBrae (Leavittsburg) – 0.605042

15. Grand Valley (Orwell) – 0.604298

16. Springfield (New Middletown) – 0.603216

17. Canfield – 0.609369

18. Southern (Salineville) – 0.564397

19. Pymantuning Valley (Andover) – 0.554817

20.  United (Hanoverton) – 0.54949

21. Ursuline (Youngstown) – 0.548587

22. Western Reserve (Berlin Center) – 0.540896

23. East Liverpool – 0.537738

24. Jefferson Area (Jefferson) – 0.525881

25. Chaney (Youngstown) – 0.524846

 

On the Bubble 
Teams on the bubble are knocking on the door of the top 25 and could break in with strong performances in upcoming games.

Mohawk

Girard

Jackson-Milton (North Jackson)

Wellsville

East Palestine

Heartland Christian (Columbiana)

Windham

Beaver Local (Lisbon)

Salem

Cardinal Mooney (Youngstown)

South Range (Canfield)

As the season progresses, keep an eye on these bubble teams, as they aim to secure a coveted spot in the YSN Power Rankings’ top 25. Stay tuned for more exciting high school basketball action!

BOARDMAN KEEPS EYES ON THE PRIZE

/in /by

BOARDMAN, OH- In an action-packed showdown, the Boardman girls’ basketball team showcased their depth on the court, securing a convincing 64-46 victory over the Warren Harding Raiders. The Spartans, determined to bounce back, delivered an impressive performance in a physical game that saw them dominate the second half and seal an 18-point win.

Leading the charge for Boardman was Samantha Duble, who lit up the scoreboard with a game-high 18 points, including four three-pointers. Duble’s sharpshooting prowess was complemented by her tenacious rebounding, securing six boards for the team. Sarah Bero continued to impress, notching another double-double with 15 points and 10 rebounds, marking her fourth of the season.

Mikayla Rivera made a significant impact off the bench, achieving a career-high in varsity play with 13 points. Mackenzie Riccitelli added 11 points to the tally and showcased her defensive skills by leading the team with four steals. Ava Freeborough contributed five points and led the team in assists with three, while Tori Strines rounded out the scoring with two points and pulled down five rebounds.

The depth of the Spartans’ roster was on full display, with players like Amira Mousa, Jocelynn Torres, Janessa Prisby, Ava Gaps, Olivia Combis, Emma Terlesky, and Lilly Ison all making valuable contributions during their time on the court.

With this triumph, the Spartans improved their season record to an impressive 9-4, maintaining a strong 2-1 standing in the AAC. The team’s collective effort and resilience were evident, setting the stage for a confident return to home court on Wednesday night against the Howland Tigers.

 

 

WESTERN RESERVE HSGBB COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH STEVE MILLER

/in /by

BERLIN CENTER, OH- Western Reserve’s head girls’ basketball coach, Steve Miller, opened up about the team’s recent performance and the adjustments they’ve made to their game plan in a podcast interview with DJ Yokley on YSN’s “WESTERN RESERVE HSBB COACH’S CORNER (EP 3) WITH STEVE MILLER.”

Coach Miller discussed the team’s current third-place ranking in the MVAC, expressing satisfaction but acknowledging that there is still room for improvement. He attributed the team’s recent shift in strategy to a focus on half-court defense, a departure from their earlier approach. Miller emphasized the importance of players understanding and executing the game plan, particularly in response to opponents’ playing styles.

Addressing the loss of a player due to transfer rules, Miller shared his insights into managing the impact on the team dynamics. He spoke about the shift in responsibilities for the remaining players and the adjustments made to accommodate the absence on the court. While acknowledging the challenge of adapting to uncharted territory, he highlighted the opportunities for player development and leadership growth arising from the situation.

The coach also touched on the versatility of key players, such as Lisa and Angelina, highlighting their adaptability and contributions to the team’s performance. Furthermore, he elaborated on the pivotal role of senior players in leading the team both on and off the court, providing context for the team’s ongoing preparations for future games and tournaments.

Coach Miller’s insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at the strategic and adaptive process undertaken by the Western Reserve girls’ basketball team, shedding light on the dynamics and challenges faced during the season.

The podcast episode offers a firsthand account of the team’s journey, reflecting the resilience and determination that underpin their pursuit of success in the high school basketball arena.

PRESENTED BY

AN ANGEL IN DEVIL’S CLOTHING

/in /by

BERLIN CENTER, OH- Angel Cappabianca, a prominent figure in the Western Reserve basketball team, sat down for an intimate conversation with the YSN podcast host, DJ Yokley. During the discussion, Cappabianca shed light on her personal life, her role in the team, and her ambitious career aspirations.
Coming from a family that holds a special place in her heart, Cappabianca spoke about the significance of having a supportive and loving family, emphasizing that they are always there for her, providing unwavering support and guidance. Clearly, her family plays a substantial role in shaping her character and her approach to life.

When asked about her parents’ influence on her, Cappabianca mentioned that she draws inspiration from her dad’s centered and calm nature and her mom’s caring demeanor, which are qualities she consciously tries to embody both on and off the basketball court. Her composed presence on the court and her nurturing attitude towards her teammates is a testament to this.

Cappabianca shared her excitement about her recent position switch in the team, expressing her determination to meet and exceed her coach’s expectations. She described her primary role as “to rebound, run, shoot the ball, and keep going as a cycle,” demonstrating her commitment to contributing to the team’s success.

Beyond her athletic endeavors, Cappabianca revealed her plans for the future, expressing her ambition to pursue a pre-law program and ultimately obtain a law degree. Her passion for law stems from her upbringing and familial influence, as she grew up surrounded by individuals passionate about criminal justice.
In a light-hearted moment, Cappabianca discussed her leisure activities, revealing her penchant for re-watching her favorite shows and diverse musical interests, ranging from country artists like Morgan Wallen to R&B sensation Frank Ocean.

When prompted about her role models, Cappabianca unequivocally cited her father as her top inspiration, emphasizing his wise counsel and the influence he has on her decisions.

Overall, Angel Cappabianca’s interview offered a peek into the life of a hardworking athlete with a deep-rooted sense of family, a passion for basketball, and ambitious aspirations for her academic and professional future. As she continues to make her mark on and off the court, her journey is undoubtedly one to follow with keen interest.

PRESENTED BY