Tag Archive for: Pymatuning Valley

MUSTANGS WIN THE HOOPS BATTLE OF THE VALLEY

Photo Credit: Joclyn Nicholas Photography

Orwell, OH- In a thrilling matchup, the Grand Valley Mustangs emerged victorious over the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 55-51. The game, played at the Mustangs’ home court, showcased intense competition and a determined effort from both teams.

Quarter by Quarter Breakdown:

First Quarter: The opening quarter saw a close battle, with the Mustangs putting up 12 points and the Lakers leading with 16. Both teams displayed strong defensive efforts, setting the stage for an exciting game ahead.

Second Quarter: The Mustangs took control in the second quarter, outscoring the Lakers 16-14. The scoring efforts were well-distributed among the Mustangs’ players, setting a solid foundation for the team heading into halftime.

Third Quarter: Maintaining their momentum, the Mustangs continued their strong performance in the third quarter, scoring 13 points to the Lakers’ 8. The Lakers faced a challenging defensive effort from the Mustangs, limiting their scoring opportunities.

Fourth Quarter: In a closely contested final quarter, the Mustangs held on to their lead, scoring 14 points to the Lakers’ 13. The Lakers made a late push, but the Mustangs’ defense proved resilient, securing the victory.

Top Performers:

Grand Valley Mustangs:

  • Braden Hart: 21 points
  • Jerry Schultz: 10 points
  • Logan Zirzow: 10 points
  • Sammy Goforth: 7 points
  • Bobby Rogers: 5 points
  • Payton Plizga: 2 points

Pymatuning Valley Lakers:

  • Blake Krznaric: 20 points
  • Zane Zeczeporenko: 12 points
  • Ryan Croston: 7 points
  • Caydence Wiser: 4 points
  • Trevor Clute: 3 points
  • Drake Haines: 3 points
  • Seth Bryan: 2 points

Upcoming Games:

The Grand Valley Mustangs (4-10) will hit the road for their next game against the Cardinal Huskies (4-13) on 2/2/24. The Huskies are seeking a rebound after a 69-61 loss to the Wickliffe Blue Devils.

Meanwhile, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (11-4) are gearing up for a crucial NAC conference matchup against the Badger Braves (12-3). The Braves won the previous encounter between the two teams on 12/15/23, securing a 71-69 victory in the final seconds. The Braves enter the game with confidence following a dominating 77-39 win over the Maplewood Rockets. This upcoming clash promises to be a highlight in the conference, as both teams vie for supremacy in the standings.

LAKERS MAKE THE MUSTANGS RUN OUT OF GAS

VIENNA OH- Pymatuning Valley showcased a commanding performance on Friday night, gradually pulling away from Mathews to secure an 81-57 victory. The Lakers dominated the second quarter with a 23-10 score.

Leading the charge, Blake Krznaric delivered an outstanding performance with a game-high 23 points and 10 rebounds, earning a well-deserved double-double. Seth Bryan contributed 18 points, while Zane Neczeporenko added 13 points to the scoreboard.

With this win, Pymatuning Valley improves to an impressive 8-3 record and looks forward to sustaining their momentum in an upcoming home game against Lordstown on Tuesday.

GENEVA BOYS AND LAKESIDE GIRLS MAKE SPLASH AS REPEAT CHAMPS IN COUNTY SWIM MEET

Photo Credit: CM Photography

Geneva, OH- January 5, 2024

The Spire Academy in Geneva, Ohio, was abuzz with excitement as the Ashtabula County All-County Swim meet brought together the finest swimmers from across the county. The Geneva Eagles continued their dominance on the boys’ side, securing their second consecutive overall team win, while Lakeside’s girls clinched a repeat victory for the second year in a row as well. Here’s a detailed breakdown of the event’s results:

Girls 200 Yard Medley Relay:

  1. Lakeside, Time: 2:13.82 – Madrigal, Stellaluna; Shevchik, Alexandra; Miklacic, Mary Grace; McClure, Rachael
  2. Geneva, Time: 2:18.03 – Collins, Kendall; Park, Ella; Griffiths, Abigail; Krieg, Julia
  3. Jefferson, Time: 2:18.11 – Anderson, Lauren; Phillips, Emma; Hanek, LaLa; Wood, Shelby

Boys 200 Yard Medley Relay:

  1. Geneva, Time: 1:54.94 – Lee, Alex; Lee, Tyler; Reigle, Nathan; Rose, Isaiah
  2. Conneaut, Time: 2:09.37 – Knight, Logan; Rich, Liam; Dean, Kyler; Sorenson, Cole
  3. Edgewood, Time: 2:13.56 – Cline, John; Tobie, Elliott; Hill, Tyler; Skwera, Joseph

Girls 200 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Miklacic, Mary Grace, Lakeside, Time: 2:09.44
  2. Perez, Jacqueline, Lakeside, Time: 2:28.58
  3. Shevchik, Alexandra, Lakeside, Time: 2:45.19

Boys 200 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Collins, Caiden, Geneva, Time: 2:05.27
  2. Yopp, Connor, Lakeside, Time: 2:10.85
  3. Meaney, Owen, Lakeside, Time: 2:33.64

Girls 200 Yard IM:

  1. Hanek, LaLa, Jefferson, Time: 2:20.71
  2. Collins, Kendall, Geneva, Time: 2:48.25
  3. Madrigal, Stellaluna, Lakeside, Time: 2:53.35

Boys 200 Yard IM:

  1. Reigle, Nathan, Geneva, Time: 2:07.76
  2. Rose, Isaiah, Geneva, Time: 2:45.52
  3. Navarro, Pablo, Geneva, Time: 2:59.67

Girls 100 Yard Butterfly:

  1. Griffiths, Abigail, Geneva, Time: 1:11.17
  2. McClure, Rachael, Lakeside, Time: 1:17.59
  3. Park, Sofia, Jefferson, Time: 1:26.63

Girls 50 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Juliaunna, Gregory, Edgewood, Time: 28.91
  2. Perez, Jasmine, Lakeside, Time: 30.54
  3. Phillips, Emma, Jefferson, Time: 30.65

Boys 50 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Lee, Tyler, Geneva, Time: 25.67
  2. Dean, Kyler, Conneaut, Time: 27.05
  3. Surbella, Matthew, Lakeside, Time: 27.65

Girls 100 Yard Butterfly:

  1. Griffiths, Abigail, Geneva, Time: 1:11.17
  2. McClure, Rachael, Lakeside, Time: 1:17.59
  3. Park, Sofia, Jefferson, Time: 1:26.63

Boys 100 Yard Butterfly:

  1. Reigle, Nathan, Geneva, Time: 58.60
  2. Yopp, Connor, Lakeside, Time: 1:09.56
  3. Walls, Wesley, Geneva, Time: 1:42.00

Girls 100 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Miklacic, Mary Grace, Lakeside, Time: 58.40
  2. Perez, Jacqueline, Lakeside, Time: 1:05.88
  3. Anderson, Lauren, Jefferson, Time: 1:14.12

Boys 100 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Lee, Alex, Geneva, Time: 59.11
  2. Surbella, Matthew, Lakeside, Time: 1:03.84
  3. Dean, Kyler, Conneaut, Time: 1:05.90

Girls 500 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Hanek, LaLa, Jefferson, Time: 5:44.90
  2. Wood, Shelby, Jefferson, Time: 7:23.44
  3. Ducro, Mary Cate, Lakeside, Time: 7:49.82

Boys 500 Yard Freestyle:

  1. Hill, Tyler, Edgewood, Time: 5:01.83
  2. Rose, Isaiah, Geneva, Time: 6:50.93
  3. Billman, Allan, Pymatuning Valley, Time: 8:14.76

Girls 200 Yard Freestyle Relay:

  1. Lakeside, Time: 1:57.84 – Perez, Jacqueline; Perez, Jasmine; McClure, Rachael; Miklacic, Mary Grace
  2. Lakeside, Time: 2:08.22 – Madrigal, Stellaluna; Garay Montelongo, Hayzel; Ducro, Mary Cate; Shevchik, Alexandra
  3. Edgewood, Time: 2:13.79 – Juliaunna, Gregory; Crooks, Maddie C; Naus, Zoe; Patton, Avery

Boys 200 Yard Freestyle Relay:

  1. Geneva, Time: 1:43.04 – Collins, Caiden; Navarro, Pablo; Lee, Alex; Reigle, Nathan
  2. Conneaut, Time: 1:50.94 – Knight, Logan; Rich, Liam; Dean, Kyler; Sorenson, Cole
  3. Lakeside, Time: 1:55.91 – Meaney, Owen; Smith, Tyler; Yopp, Connor; Surbella, Matthew

Girls 100 Yard Backstroke:

  1. Juliaunna, Gregory, Edgewood, Time: 1:14.82
  2. Collins, Kendall, Geneva, Time: 1:15.38
  3. Madrigal, Stellaluna, Lakeside, Time: 1:16.01

Boys 100 Yard Backstroke:

  1. Hill, Tyler, Edgewood, Time: 1:00.56
  2. Collins, Caiden, Geneva, Time: 1:02.57
  3. Piccirillo, Joshua, Jefferson, Time: 1:15.91

Girls 100 Yard Breaststroke:

  1. Phillips, Emma, Jefferson, Time: 1:24.87
  2. Shevchik, Alexandra, Lakeside, Time: 1:32.17
  3. Park, Sofia, Jefferson, Time: 1:36.75

Boys 100 Yard Breaststroke:

  1. Lee, Tyler, Geneva, Time: 1:10.03
  2. Rich, Liam, Conneaut, Time: 1:13.43
  3. Tobie, Elliott, Edgewood, Time: 1:17.24

Girls 400 Yard Freestyle Relay:

  1. Jefferson, Time: 4:40.72 – Wood, Shelby; Park, Sofia; Phillips, Emma; Hanek, LaLa
  2. Geneva, Time: 4:49.64 – Collins, Kendall; Doherty, Bridget; Krieg, Julia; Griffiths, Abigail
  3. Geneva, Time: 6:13.67 – Elek, Sophia; Cybulski, Sarah; Armington, Joanna; Kobus, Delaney

Boys 400 Yard Freestyle Relay:

  1. Geneva, Time: 4:01.60 – Collins, Caiden; Rose, Isaiah; Lee, Alex; Lee, Tyler
  2. Lakeside, Time: 4:32.98 – Meaney, Owen; Smith, Tyler; Yopp, Connor; Surbella, Matthew
  3. Edgewood, Time: 4:47.38 – Hill, Tyler; Cline, John; Tobie, Elliott; Skwera, Joseph

The Ashtabula County All-County Swim meet showcased outstanding performances, highlighting the exceptional talent and competitive spirit of the swimmers. Congratulations to all participants for an incredible display of skill and sportsmanship!

LAKERS RIDE WAVE PAST BOMBERS

Photo Credit: Kelly York Summers

Windham, OH- In an classic NAC battle, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers displayed their resilience and skill as they emerged victorious against the Windham Bombers with a final score of 66-60. The game, played on 1/5/24, showcased the Lakers’ determination and teamwork, ultimately solidifying their standing with a record of 7-3.

Quarter-by-Quarter Breakdown:

1st Quarter:

  • Pymatuning Valley Lakers: 16 points
  • Windham Bombers: 11 points

The Lakers started the game strong, setting the tone with a solid lead in the opening quarter.

2nd Quarter:

  • Pymatuning Valley Lakers: 17 points
  • Windham Bombers: 22 points

The Bombers mounted a comeback in the second quarter, outscoring the Lakers, but Pymatuning Valley maintained their edge.

3rd Quarter:

  • Pymatuning Valley Lakers: 17 points
  • Windham Bombers: 12 points

The Lakers continued to build on their lead in the third quarter, maintaining control of the game.

4th Quarter:

  • Pymatuning Valley Lakers: 16 points
  • Windham Bombers: 15 points

In a closely contested final quarter, both teams fought hard, but the Lakers held on to secure the victory.

Top Performers:

Pymatuning Valley Lakers:

  • Blake Krznaric: 28 points
  • Zane Neczeporenko: 16 points
  • Caydense Wiser: 9 points

Windham Bombers:

  • C. Brenton: 23 points
  • Nick Hopper: 16 points
  • A. Wiley: 6 points

Upcoming Matches:

The Pymatuning Valley Lakers (7-3) will face the Fairport Skippers (5-2) on the road in a highly anticipated matchup scheduled for 1/9/24. The Skippers, coming off a dominant 90-54 win over the Mathews Mustangs, will pose a tough challenge for the Lakers.

Meanwhile, the Windham Bombers (4-5) are set to play at home against the Mathews Mustangs. The Mustangs are looking to bounce back from a 90-54 loss to the Fairport Skippers, setting the stage for an intriguing clash between the two NAC members.

WARRIORS STAY UNBEATEN WITH WIN OVER LAKERS

East Ashtbula- Keeping up their winning ways, the Edgewood Warriors girls’ basketball team maintained their undefeated streak, overpowering the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 62-32. The Warriors showcased their dominance, with standout performances from key players. As they continue their winning streak, the Edgewood girls continue to impress basketball fans all over.

Player Stats:

Edgewood Girls:

  • Avery Vencil: 14 points
  • McKenna Vencil: 4 points
  • Julianna Phillip: 3 points
  • Katelynn McCollister: 16 points
  • Leigha Guyton: 3 points
  • Carly Kray: 7 points
  • Annie Johnston: 15 points

Pymatuning Girls:

  • Raylyn Ballentine: 3 points
  • Zoey Painter: 9 points
  • Nataleigh Haines: 1 point
  • Sadie Paul: 2 points
  • Leah DeMoss: 5 points
  • Mckenna Jordan: 2 points
  • Jolene Sharpe: 4 points
  • Julia Hitchcock: 4 points
  • Taryn Tisch: 2 points

Looking Ahead:

The Edgewood Warriors, with a pristine 8-0 record, are gearing up for their next challenge as they face the St. John Heralds (2-3) at home on 12/28/23. The Heralds are coming off a 65-44 loss to the Lakeside Dragons, making them hungry for redemption. Meanwhile, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers (4-2) will hit the road to take on the Geneva Eagles (4-2) on 12/27/23 in a bid to regain their winning momentum after the tough loss against the Warriors

ERNST’S 34 LEAD WARRIORS PAST LAKERS

East Ashtabula, OH- The Edgewood Warriors added another win to their impressive 5-1 record as they triumphed over the Pymatuning Valley Lakers with a final score of 68-60. The game, filled with intense moments and standout performances, showcased the Warriors’ determination and skill on the basketball court.

Quarter Scores:

Top Scorers for Edgewood:

  • Jacob Ernst: 34 points
  • Logan Kray: 15 points
  • Mason Thorr: 14 points

Top Scorers for Pymatuning Valley:

  • Zane Neczeporenko: 23 points
  • Drake Haines: 18 points
  • Caydence Wiser and Seth Bryan: 5 points each

The game started with a closely contested first quarter, with both teams showcasing their offensive prowess. However, Edgewood managed to take control in the second quarter, outscoring Pymatuning Valley by one point. The Warriors extended their lead in the third quarter, setting the stage for an exciting final period.

Jacob Ernst emerged as the star player for Edgewood, contributing an impressive 34 points to the team’s total. Logan Kray and Mason Thorr also played crucial roles, scoring 15 and 14 points, respectively.

For Pymatuning Valley, Zane Neczeporenko led the charge with 23 points, followed closely by Drake Haines with 18 points. Despite their efforts, the Lakers couldn’t overcome the Warriors’ relentless offensive and defensive plays.

With this win, the Edgewood Warriors are now 5-1 and look forward to their upcoming road game against the Niles Red Dragons on 12/29/23. The Red Dragons are seeking redemption after a close 64-58 loss to the Salem Quakers.

On the other hand, the Pymatuning Valley Lakers, now 5-3, will hit the road to face the Cardinal Huskies (1-5) on the same day. The Huskies are riding high on a recent 62-55 victory over the Garrettsville Garfield G-Men and will be aiming to build on their momentum.

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.