Tag Archive for: Lakers

SMOOTH SAILING FOR LAKERS IN WIN OVER HERALDS

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers Photography

Andover, OH- In a decisive victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers showcased their dominance on the court, overpowering NAC foe the St. John Heralds with a final score of 71-34. The Lakers demonstrated their skill and teamwork throughout the game, leaving little room for the Heralds to mount a comeback.

The Lakers took control early on, posting impressive scores in each quarter. The first quarter saw Pymatuning Valley establish an early lead, outscoring St. John 29-16. The momentum continued into the second quarter, with the Lakers extending their advantage to 53-25 by halftime.

The second half of the game only solidified the Lakers’ dominance. St. John struggled to find an answer to Pymatuning Valley’s offensive prowess, managing only a single point in the third quarter. The Lakers maintained their intensity, closing out the game with a resounding 71-34 victory.

Leading the charge for Pymatuning Valley was Zane Neczeporenko, who contributed an impressive 21 points to the team’s total. Blake Krznaric added 18 points, while Trevor Clute and Brady Tisch chipped in with 8 points each. The Lakers showcased a balanced offensive effort, with multiple players making significant contributions.

On the St. John side, Anthony Severino led the scoring with 12 points, but the team struggled to match the Lakers’ offensive output. Despite the Heralds’ efforts, the Lakers’ defensive prowess and strategic play proved too much to overcome.

Looking ahead, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, now boasting a 4-1 record, are set to face the Badger Braves on December 15, 2023. The Braves, with a 3-1 record, will undoubtedly provide a challenging matchup. Meanwhile, the St. John Heralds, still in search of their first win at 0-5, will hit the road to face the Cardinal Huskies on December 27, 2023. The Huskies, currently 0-3, will be eager to bounce back from a recent loss to the Kirtland Hornets. Basketball enthusiasts can expect an exciting showdown as both teams look to make their mark in the upcoming games.

LAKERS TAKE THE SHOW ON THE ROAD

Photo Credit: CM Photography

Ashtabula, OH- In the Dragons home opener for 2023-2024 season, the Lakeside Dragons clashed with the Pymatuning Valley Lakers in a game that delivered excitement until the final buzzer. The Lakers emerged victorious with a final score of 72-68, but the contest was a true showcase of skill, determination, and the heart of both teams.

A Hard-Fought Battle: Quarter by Quarter Breakdown

The Lakers and Dragons engaged in an intense battle from the opening tip-off, with Lakeside claiming a 27-22 lead at the end of the first quarter. However, Pymatuning Valley fought back in the second, outscoring the Dragons 19-13 and entering halftime with a slim 41-40 lead. The third quarter was no different, as both teams exchanged blows, setting the stage for a dramatic final period. In the end, Pymatuning Valley’s resilience secured the hard-fought 72-68 victory.

Star Performances: Bryan’s Flawless Night and Neczporenko’s Defensive Prowess

Seth Bryan of the Lakers emerged as the game-changer, going a perfect 10 for 10 from the free-throw line and sinking three crucial three-pointers. Bryan’s 27-point performance showcased his scoring prowess and clutch play, earning him a well-deserved spotlight. Not far behind was Zane Neczporenko, who not only contributed 16 points but also made his presence felt on the defensive end with numerous steals.

On the Lakeside side, Aiden Hathy was a standout performer, leading the Dragons with an impressive 23 points. Hathy’s contributions extended beyond scoring, as he showcased his defensive skills with blocked shots and grabbed rebounds throughout the game. Dylan Newsome added firepower to the Dragons’ offense, sinking four three-pointers and keeping the Lakers on their toes.

Looking Ahead: Lakers look to build on a win and Dragons work to get started

As the Lakers bask in the glow of their hard-fought victory, they are gearing up for another challenge at home against the Fairport Harding Skippers on 12/08/23. The Skippers, eager to bounce back from a 75-61 loss to the Badger Braves, will face a Lakers team hungry for redemption and looking to build on the positives from their clash with Pymatuning Valley.

For the Lakeside Dragons (0-1), the road to redemption takes them to the Grand Valley Mustangs on 12/09/23. The Mustangs, coming off a narrow 47-44 loss to the Edgewood Warriors, will provide another stern test for the Dragons as they seek their first win of the season.

As the Lakers and Dragons regroup, fans can anticipate more thrilling matchups and captivating basketball action in the games to come. The season is young, and with each game, the story of redemption and triumph continues to unfold for these determined teams.

LAKERS MAKE A SPLASH AT HOME

Andover, OH-In an early season thriller, the Jefferson Falcons suffered a close defeat against the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 70-71. Despite a strong effort from key players like Anthony Covetta and Joey DeGeorge, the Falcons fell short by just one point.

The individual scoring showcased impressive performances, starting with Joey DeGeorge’s outstanding 31 points leading the Falcons, followed closely by Anthony Covetta with 22. Dylan Beebe contributed 12 points, while Robbie Pisano and Joel Navarro added 3 and 2 points, respectively.

On the home side, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers secured the victory with a well-rounded team effort. Zane Neczeporenko led the Lakers with an impressive 29 points, supported by Seth Bryan with 14 points. Blake Krznaric contributed 13 points, and other players like Trevor Clute, Ryan Croston, and Brady Tisch added to the team’s overall success.

Looking ahead, the Jefferson Falcons, now 0-1, will face the Benedictine Bengals on the road. The Bengals, also 0-1, aim to bounce back from their recent loss to Gilmour Academy. On the other hand, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, with a 1-0 record, will go on the road to take on the Bristol Panthers, who are also 1-0 after a convincing 62-40 win over the McDonald Blue Devils. The upcoming matchups promise exciting basketball action on 12/08/23 and 12/05/23, respectively.

ASHTABULA COUNTY HOOPS PREVIEW

Ashtabula,OH- As the winter season approaches, the anticipation for high school basketball in Ashtabula County is reaching its peak. The upcoming 2023-2024 season promises thrilling matchups, fierce competition, and a showcase of young talent. Let’s take a closer look at some of the teams that are gearing up for an exciting campaign.

Lakeside Dragons: Rising with Height and Experience

The Lakeside Dragons enter the season with a determination to improve upon their 6-17 record from the previous year, and they have the tools to make it happen. Head coach Josh Hartz leads a squad with a formidable frontcourt, boasting four seniors, all standing at 6’3 or taller.

Aiden Hathy, a 6’6 senior swing player, brings versatility to the team, excelling in both paint defense and scoring from inside and outside. Alex DiSalvatore, a 6’4 senior, adds toughness and strength in the paint, complemented by his ability to defend perimeter shooters. With seniors Connor Mead and Kerrye White also contributing, the Dragons aim to utilize their size advantage strategically.

In the backcourt, junior guard Dylan Newsome assumes the role of primary ball handler and distributor, showcasing sharpshooting prowess on offense and formidable on-ball defense.

Jefferson Falcons: A Deep and Skilled Lineup

The Jefferson Falcons, coming off a 16-7 season, present a well-rounded team with depth and skill. Junior Anthony Covetta leads the charge, showcasing shooting ability, ball skills, and an increased focus on defense that positions him as one of the county’s most dangerous players.

Supporting Covetta is the experienced Robbie Pisano, a cerebral point guard, and senior Joey DeGeorge, a 6’5 stretch four with a high release point. The Falcons feature depth in the guard position with talents like sophomore Joel Navarro and junior Caleb Welser.

Entering the challenging CVC conference for the first time, the Falcons aim to make their mark and build on last year’s success.

Edgewood Warriors: Filling Big Shoes with a Well-Rounded Approach

The Edgewood Warriors face the challenge of filling the void left by their top scorer, Zach Vencill. With a 15-10 record in the previous season, the Warriors look to senior Jacob Ernst to lead the charge. Ernst’s well-rounded game includes excellent ball handling, three-point shooting, and strong finishes at the rim.

Senior Logan Kray, known for his rebounding prowess, contributes on the offensive end with his shooting and playmaking abilities. The underrated defender Brady Anderjack adds a tenacious on-ball defense to the mix.

The Warriors’ strategy involves spreading the floor with sharpshooters and pushing the pace with quick guards like Zach Carlton-Hull.

St. John Heralds: Youthful Backcourt and Emerging Big Men

After finishing the 2022-2023 season at 6-17, the St. John Heralds face the challenge of filling the gap left by the graduation of post player Jesus Hernandez. With a youthful team, senior AJ Hensley leads as the lone senior.

The Heralds will heavily rely on their backcourt play, with junior Vin Narducci and sophomore Anthony Severino leading the charge. Narducci’s scoring ability and Severino’s slippery moves on the court bring a dynamic element to the team. Junior Aaron Wychock, known for his quick defensive presence, adds energy to the backcourt.

In the paint, the Heralds turn to sophomores Anthony Petrochello and Donald Crawford to control the boards and provide a strong presence.

Grand Valley Mustangs: Frontcourt Dominance

Coming off a 7-16 season, the Grand Valley Mustangs aim to replace the scoring and court presence of dynamic guard Nate Boiarski. The team looks to seniors Bobby Rogers and Jerry Schultz to lead the charge in the frontcourt.

Rogers, with unmatched athleticism and elite off-ball defensive skills, contributes both in rebounding and scoring. Schultz, following a breakout junior season with a double-double average, anchors the center position with scoring and shot-blocking prowess.

Guards Braden Hart and Sammy Goforth take charge of ball handling and setting the tone on offense, showcasing their scoring ability and playmaking skills.

Pymatuning Valley Lakers: Reloaded for Success

After a stellar 20-4 season crowned with a NAC conference championship, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers enter the new season without dynamic players Tyler Britton and John Moschell, who graduated. However, the team returns with a talented post player in Blake Krznaric, a sharpshooter with shot-blocking abilities who stands at a towering 6’5.

The Lakers’ backcourt features dynamic guards in Ryan Croston and Zane Neczeporenko. Croston stands out as the team’s best on-ball defender, while Neczeporenko’s ball-handling and shooting skills contribute to offensive opportunities.

Conneaut Spartans: New Coach, Young Talent

After a 5-18 season, the Conneaut Spartans embark on the 2023-2024 journey with a new coach, Rich Marshall. The team, featuring only two seniors in Chance Loomis and JR Hutchinson, embraces a youthful roster.

Loomis, a talented guard with exceptional ball-handling skills and sharpshooting ability, provides offensive firepower. Hutchinson, playing guard and forward, contributes through defense and energy, aiming to spark the Spartans.

With no players over 6’2, the Spartans plan to utilize pace, energy, and technical play to navigate the challenges of the upcoming season. Rotations featuring Noah Hamm, Ryan Turner, Jordan Kulko, Cole Stump, and Devonte Harris will provide different looks and maintain a dynamic playing style.

As the season unfolds, basketball enthusiasts in Ashtabula County can look forward to witnessing the growth and development of these teams, filled with promising talents and a shared passion for the game. Whether it’s the Dragons utilizing their size advantage, the Falcons showcasing depth, or the Lakers defending their conference championship, the stage is set for an exhilarating journey on the hardwood. The county’s basketball landscape is rich with stories waiting to be written, and each team is poised to contribute its chapter to the unfolding narrative of the 2023-2024 season. This year looks to be a fun and exciting year in hoops and you will be able to watch and follow all your favorite teams right here on www.ysnlive.com your home for northeast ohio high school sports.

LAKERS FALL IN MOGADORE

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers Photography

Mogadore, OH- In a hard-fought battle against a very seasoned opponent, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers faced off against the Mogadore Wildcats in the second round of the OHSAA playoffs. The game was filled with thrilling moments and remarkable plays that kept fans cheering from both sides.

The first quarter started with Mogadore’s Cole Reese breaking through the Lakers’ defense, making an impressive 18-yard touchdown run. The extra point was good, putting the Wildcats ahead 7-0. However, the Lakers quickly responded with a 1-yard touchdown run by Ryan Croston and a successful 2-point conversion run by Croston himself, taking the lead at 8-7.

The second quarter saw both teams battling for the lead. Mogadore’s Austin Constantine managed a 2-yard touchdown run, and the 2-point conversion was good, putting the Wildcats ahead 15-8. Mogadore extended their lead with a remarkable 89-yard pass from Kason Jaber to Devin Graham, although the Lakers managed to block the extra point. The score at halftime stood at 21-8 in favor of Mogadore.

The third quarter had its share of challenges for the Lakers, with a fumble that was recovered by Mogadore. Cole Reese of Mogadore added to the Wildcats’ lead with a 36-yard touchdown run and another successful 2-point conversion, making the score 29-8.

The final score reflected the fierce competition, with the Mogadore Wildcats claiming a 29-8 victory over the Pymatuning Valley Lakers. While the Lakers (8-4) may have ended their season with this loss, they can take pride in an impressive season, going undefeated in conference play and outscoring their last six opponents by a significant margin. Juniors Ryan Croston and Ty Vickery, both 1,200-yard rushers, were instrumental in their success. With only one senior on the roster, the Lakers are poised to be a formidable opponent once again in the 2024 season.

The Mogadore Wildcats (10-2) will move on to the Regional Semi-Finals in week 13, where they will face the Mineral Ridge Rams (8-4). While the Lakers’ season may have ended, their future looks promising, and their fans can look forward to more exciting football in the years to come.

LATE GAME PUSH LIFTS LAKERS OVER REBELS

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers

Andover, OH- In a electric OHSAA 1st round matchup in Andover, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers took on the Crestview Rebels in a hard-fought battle that would decide their playoff fate. The first half of the game saw both teams locked in a defensive struggle, resulting in no scores in either the first or second quarter.

The game’s turning point came in the third quarter, with 6:41 left on the clock, when Crestview’s Jameson English connected with Joey Carr for a 5-yard touchdown pass, followed by a successful extra point. This put the Rebels ahead 7-0, putting pressure on the Lakers.

However, the Lakers responded with determination, as Ty Vickery powered through the defense for a 1-yard touchdown run, and a successful 2-point conversion put Pymatuning Valley ahead 8-7 with 1:41 left in the third quarter.

As the game entered the fourth quarter, Crestview reclaimed the lead with Max Hawkins 1-yard touchdown run and an extra point, making it 14-8 with 6:25 remaining. But the Lakers weren’t ready to give up. With 2:51 left in the game, Ty Vickery once again proved his worth, scoring a crucial 5-yard touchdown, and a successful 2-point conversion, this time completed by Ryan Croston, put the Lakers ahead 16-14.

The game’s defining moment occurred on that last 2-point conversion when an initially injured Ryan Croston was stopped on the line but pushed across by teammate Ty Vickery, sealing the victory for Pymatuning Valley.

With a final score of Pymatuning Valley 16 – Crestview 14, the Lakers secured their fourth consecutive playoff appearance. The Lakers, now with an 8-3 record, are set to face the Mogadore Hornets (9-2) on the road in the second round of the OHSAA playoffs, while the Crestview Rebels (5-6) concluded their season with this hard-fought loss. It was a memorable and emotional night for the Lakers and their fans as they look forward to the challenges of the postseason.

LAKERS STAY PERFECT IN NAC PLAY

Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Windham, OH- In a dominant display of ball control and defense, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers secured an impressive victory against the Windham Bombers, blanking their opponents with a final score of 36-0. It was a statement win for the Lakers, highlighting their superiority on both sides of the ball.

The game kicked off with a bang in the 1st quarter, as Ryan Croston bulldozed his way into the end zone with a 9-yard touchdown run. The Lakers didn’t stop there, successfully converting a 2-point attempt to take an early 8-0 lead. Croston continued to shine, breaking free for a spectacular 42-yard touchdown run, though the 2-point conversion was denied, leaving the score at 14-0.

In the 2nd quarter, Ty Vickery extended the Lakers’ lead with a 5-yard touchdown run, but another failed 2-point conversion attempt kept the score at 20-0. The Lakers showed no mercy in the 3rd quarter, with Jayce Fulkman muscling his way into the end zone with a 6-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion. The Lakers now led comfortably at 28-0.

The final quarter saw Luke Giddings recover a fumble and return it for a touchdown, further sealing the Lakers’ commanding lead. With another successful 2-point conversion, the final score was set at 36-0.

Pymatuning Valley’s quarterback, Ryan Croston, emerged as the standout performer of the game, scoring two rushing touchdowns and amassing an impressive 113 yards on the ground.

With this decisive victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved their season record to 7-3, maintaining a perfect 5-0 record in the NAC. Their next challenge will be in the first round of the OHSAA playoffs as they host the Crestview Rebels, who have a record of 5-5 overall and 5-2 in the MVAC.

Unfortunately, for the Windham Bombers, their season ends with a record of 2-8 overall and 1-4 in the NAC, as they failed to qualify for the OHSAA playoffs. The Lakers’ performance in this game surely left an indelible mark, setting the stage for an exciting playoff run.

LAKERS GRAB FIFTH CONSECUTIVE NAC CHAMPIONSHIP IN WIN OVER HERALDS

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas Photography

Andover, OH- Trying to finish strong, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (6-3, 3-0 NAC) asserted their authority over the St. John Heralds (3-6, 1-3 NAC) in a commanding 60-6 victory, securing their fifth consecutive NAC championship. This game was a testament to the Lakers’ unwavering dedication to their powerful rushing attack, led by the dynamic duo of Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston.

The Lakers wasted no time in setting the tone for the game, with Ryan Croston making a statement early in the first quarter. Croston’s 13-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, put Pymatuning Valley on the board at 8-0. Moments later, Vin Narducci of St. John felt the heat of the Lakers’ defense, throwing an interception to Jayce Fulkman. Within moments, Croston was back in the end zone with a 5-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers extended their lead to 16-0.

Despite a brief interception from Croston, the Lakers continued their offensive onslaught with Ty Vickery’s 4-yard touchdown run, although the 2-point conversion was unsuccessful, making the score 22-0. Before the end of the first quarter, Croston connected with Matthew Adkins for a 6-yard touchdown pass, and with another 2-point conversion, the Lakers ended the first quarter with a commanding 30-0 lead.

The Lakers continued their relentless charge into the second quarter, as Ty Vickery scored another touchdown with a 5-yard run, and the 2-point conversion was good, extending their lead to 38-0. Vickery struck again with a 7-yard touchdown run, making it 44-0.

In the third quarter, Croston exhibited his explosive speed with a 48-yard touchdown run, and Ben Crouser successfully converted the 2-point attempt. Jayce Fulkman joined the scoring parade with a 28-yard touchdown run, and the Lakers continued to dominate with a 60-0 lead.

In the fourth quarter, the St. John Heralds managed to avoid a shutout when Ryan Williams scored a 1-yard touchdown run with only 29 seconds left on the clock, but time expired before they could attempt the extra point.

With this convincing victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers not only secured their NAC championship but also secured their spot in the OHSAA state playoffs. Their playoff journey promises to be exciting, and their fans can look forward to the prospect of a 1st round game against the Labrae Vikings with a loss to Windham, or a week 1 rematch against Mineral Ridge in the first round with a win over Windham. The Lakers’ commitment to their running game, exemplified by Ty Vickery and Ryan Croston, was the driving force behind this triumph. As the Lakers head into Week 10, they continue to be a force to be reckoned with, while the St. John Heralds will regroup for their upcoming matchup against the Lincoln West Wolverines.

LAKERS RUSHING RAMPAGE CONTINUES PAST MUSTANGS

Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Andover, OH- In a dominating performance, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers left no doubt on the field as they clashed with the Mathews Mustangs. From the very beginning, it was clear that the Lakers were on a mission to secure victory.

The 1st quarter saw Ty Vickery taking charge with an 8-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion, putting Pymatuning Valley ahead 8-0. But they weren’t done yet. Ryan Croston connected with Ty Vickery for a spectacular 49-yard touchdown pass, and once again, the 2-point conversion was successful, extending the lead to 16-0.

The 2nd quarter continued to be a showcase of Pymatuning Valley’s dominance. Ty Vickery bulldozed his way into the end zone with a 4-yard touchdown run, followed by another successful 2-point conversion, making it 24-0. Ryan Croston decided to showcase his speed with a stunning 64-yard touchdown run, and yes, you guessed it, another successful 2-point conversion, bringing the score to 32-0. Ty Vickery continued to add to his impressive performance with a 2-yard touchdown run and, of course, a 2-point conversion to make it 40-0.

As if that weren’t enough, the 3rd quarter saw Ty Vickery break away for a jaw-dropping 49-yard touchdown run, once again followed by a successful 2-point conversion, making it 48-0. The Lakers were relentless, and the Mustangs had no answers.

In the end, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers emerged victorious with a resounding 48-0 scoreline. The Lakers’ dynamic rushing duo of Ryan Croston and Ty Vickery stole the show, with both players finding the end zone multiple times. With this incredible performance, they’re inching closer to the 1,000-yard rushing mark for the season.

The Pymatuning Valley Lakers (5-3, 2-0 NAC) continue to impress and will host the St. John Heralds (3-5, 1-2 NAC) in week 9, where they’ll look to keep their momentum going. Meanwhile, the Mathews Mustangs (1-7, 1-1 NAC) will have to regroup as they prepare to face the Windham Bombers (2-6, 1-2 NAC) at home in week 9. The Lakers are riding high, and their fans have every reason to be excited about what’s to come.

LAKERS RUSH PAST SKIPPERS FOR FIRST NAC WIN

Photo Credit: Kelly Summers

Fairport, OH- Building off of a dominating performance in week 6, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers sailed to victory against the Fairport Skippers with a final score of 40-0. The Lakers wasted no time making their presence known on the field, as they established their lead early in the first quarter.

The first quarter saw Ryan Croston bulldoze his way into the end zone with a powerful 10-yard touchdown run, followed by a successful 2-point conversion. Pymatuning Valley took an early 8-0 lead. The Lakers continued to flex their offensive muscles when Ty Vickery added another touchdown, this time from 5 yards out, and once again the 2-point conversion was successful. The first quarter ended with the Lakers comfortably ahead, 16-0.

The second quarter remained scoreless, as both defenses dug in to prevent any further advances on the scoreboard. However, the Lakers were far from finished.

In the third quarter, Ryan Croston showcased his speed and determination with a 20-yard touchdown run, accompanied by a 2-point conversion that extended the Lakers’ lead to 24-0. Ty Vickery wasn’t to be outdone and added yet another 5-yard touchdown run, with the conversion once again good, making the score 32-0 in favor of the Lakers.

The Lakers put the finishing touches on their impressive performance in the fourth quarter when Ty Vickery broke free for a spectacular 45-yard touchdown run. With the successful 2-point conversion, the final score stood at a resounding 40-0 in favor of Pymatuning Valley.

With this victory, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers improved their record to 4-3 overall and 1-0 in the NAC. Their next challenge awaits them at home in week 8, where they will face off against the Mathews Mustangs, who have a 1-6 record overall and also boast a 1-0 NAC record. The Lakers’ dominant rushing attack has been on full display for 2 straight weeks.

On the other side, the Fairport Skippers, now 2-5 overall and 1-1 in the NAC, will be gearing up for their week 8 matchup against the St. John Heralds, who hold a 3-4 overall record and a matching 1-1 NAC record.