Tag Archive for: West Branch

WEST BRANCH STAYING LOCKED IN

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By Matt Maher 


GIRARD, OH – The red hot Warriors made their way out to Girard for an end of season tuneup against the Indians. After a fairly close 1st quarter, the Warriors continued to outscore Girard and found themselves with a 65-40 victory. West Branch fought hard with great defensive coverage and took advantage of most of their possessions while Girard had their struggles.

 

The Warriors started out the night by winning the opening tip and quickly converting the first 2 points and while Girard did have a response it wasn’t nearly as powerful as what West Branch was showing and the frame ended 19-11 in favor of the Warriors. The 3 ball was the specialty for Girard in the first quarter with Kaiden Clare hitting two of them to get 6 of his 8 points and a third coming from Melvin Dixon. While Girard specialized from beyond the arc, West Branch was hard to tame in the paint, finding 7 of their field goals from within the arc with Gavin Gregory scoring four of them. Camden Lane found the first 3 of the game for West Branch and went 1-for-2 from the charity Stripe as well.

 

Both teams slowed down the offensive output in the 2nd quarter with West Branch finding 16 to Girards 7. Dom Philips found 4 points with a layup and 1 as well as putting up 1-of-2 later down the stretch, Nick Rafferty found another 3 ball for the Indians as well. Cooper Anderson found three 2’s to lead his team with 6 points in the frame while Ricky Hendershott followed Anderson with 5 points including another 3 for his team. 

 

Girard had a better 2nd half and started it out with a 10 point 3rd quarter that came up just 3 points shy of West Branches 13 points. The Indians found four scores from four different sources: Dixon and Stephen Sims both put up 2’s and Cam Herrick and Rafferty both shot from range and put up a combined 6 points. Jaxon Robb was the leader for West branch in the 3rd, with 7 points that came from two 2’s and a good 3-for-4 from the line he helped his team keep Girard at bay.

 

The Indians had their highest scoring quarter yet with a 12 point 4th. While Girard was reaching new heights late in this game, West Branch was staying put and scored 16 points to really put this one to bed. The Indians yet again found all their scoring from four different sources but this time all of them each hit a 3, Ahmad Curd, Nick Rafferty, Chris Cardiero and Cam Herrick all found buckets for Girard. West Branch spread the wealth as well with 7 different players all scoring at least 1 point with Gregory leading the cause with 4 points and Lane adding one last triple.

 

Girard was excellent from beyond the arc on Friday night but it wasn’t enough to take down one of the top teams in our area. West Branch found themselves in some favorable spots throughout the game and that was due in part to their excellent play making as well as some less than desirable coverage from their opponent. West Branch (17-3) will stay on the road when they face Boardman on February 20th at 7:00PM while Girard (2-19) will finish off their season at LaBrae on the 20th as well at 7:00PM.

WARRIORS BRING THE HEAT ON SENIOR NIGHT

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BELOIT OH- West Branch’s senior night was nothing short of spectacular as they clinched a commanding victory over Girard with a final score of 42-23. The jubilant crowd cheered on their seniors in what proved to be a memorable game.

Leading the charge for West Branch was Livvie Showalter, who poured in an impressive 13 points, showcasing her scoring prowess on the court. Not far behind was Chloe Dennison, who contributed 11 points, adding to the team’s offensive firepower.

Sophia Gregory and Mikayln Woods also made significant contributions, each chipping in 5 points to secure the team’s victory. Their solid performances underscored the depth and talent of the West Branch lineup.

With this win, West Branch concluded their regular season with an outstanding record of 20-2, setting the stage for an exciting tournament run. Looking ahead, they are poised to face Coventry in their first-round game next Wednesday.

Game Photos HERE: https://ysn.smugmug.com/2-14-g-bb-west-branch-girard/2-14-g-bb-west-branch-girard/105EOS1D

WARRIORS DEFENSE TRAVELS WELL

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HOWLAND OH- In a thrilling road showdown, West Branch showcased their defensive prowess and emerged victorious against Howland with a hard-fought 43-39 win on Saturday. It was a test of resilience for both teams, but West Branch’s stalwart defense proved to be the difference-maker in the end.

Leading the charge for West Branch was Audrey Eaton, who displayed her scoring prowess with 11 points, supported by Sophia Gregory with 8 points and MiKalyn Woods with 7 points. Carter Shepard also contributed 6 points to bolster their team’s offensive efforts.

Howland put up a strong fight, with Alyssa Massucci leading their scoring with 11 points, followed by Jessie DeSalvo with 7 points and Sophia Powell with 6 points.

However, West Branch’s tenacious defense proved to be the deciding factor, as they held off Howland’s offensive threats to secure the victory.

With this win, West Branch improved their impressive season record to 19-2, setting the stage for a final regular-season showdown at home against Girard on Wednesday. Meanwhile, Howland, with a season record of 15-6, will conclude their regular season with a matchup against Fitch on Tuesday.

OVERTIME BOUT TILTS THE WAY OF THE WARRIORS

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By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH- The matchup at West Branch High School between the West Branch Warriors and the Youngstown East Golden Bears was an absolute must-see event. The atmosphere was electric, with a packed crowd eagerly anticipating the clash between these two formidable teams. The  Golden Bears held the lead throughout the entire game. With just about 2 seconds left on the clock, Jaxon Robb was fouled while attempting a game-tying three-pointer. Showing nerves of steel, he sank all three free throws, forcing the game into overtime. In a heart-pounding finish, the Warriors narrowly clinched a thrilling 73-71 victory on their home court.

 

Jaxon Robb displayed remarkable composure as he stepped up to the line, sinking all three of his foul shots to force the game into overtime. His calm demeanor was evident throughout the game, where he showcased his athleticism with several highlight-reel plays en route to scoring 22 points. Jeremiah Thomas demonstrated his lightning-quick reflexes on the court tonight, tallying 15 points. Notably, he even surprised fans by sinking a crucial three-pointer, a shot he typically doesn’t attempt.

 

Gavin Gregory also contributed 15 points to the scoreboard, matching Jeremiah Thomas’s impressive performance. Cooper Anderson also helped the Warriors offensively with his eleven points. Meanwhile, Joey Jackson held his ground defensively, limiting Isiah McCray to just 10 points in the second half while chipping in with 10 points of his own on the offensive end

 

For East, Isaiah McCray was tough to stop! He drilled five three pointers and scored a game high 29 points. Cam’Eron Sly finished with 18 points. His ability on the offensive glass kept extra possessions alive. Finally, Jerry Smith scored 10. 

 

With the win West Branch improves to 15-3 on the season. The Warriors will be back in action on Friday at 7:00 PM  for a big rivalry game vs Salem. East drops to 8-9 with the loss and will host Chaney on Friday in a big SVC matchup at 7:00 PM.

 

WARRIORS DEFENSE LOCKS DOWN FITCH

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BELOIT OH- Employing a stifling defense, West Branch showcased their dominance on Saturday, securing a convincing 50-21 victory over Fitch. Sophia Gregory led the scoring charge with an impressive 17 points, complemented by Audrey Eaton contributing 12 points.

On the Fitch side, Destanie McCullough managed to notch 7 points, while Ayla Ray added 6 points, but they faced a formidable defensive effort from West Branch.

With this win, West Branch boasts an impressive 17-2 record and looks ahead to a road trip on Wednesday for a matchup with Norton. Meanwhile, Fitch, with a 12-7 record, will return home on Monday to host South Range. The game highlighted West Branch’s defensive prowess and sets the stage for their upcoming challenges in the season.

GREGORY HITS 1,000 IN WARRIORS RIVALRY WIN

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SALEM OH- In a highly anticipated showdown between arch-rivals, West Branch emerged victorious on the road against Salem on Wednesday, securing a hard-fought 40-34 win. The game not only marked the second triumph of the season for West Branch against Salem but also a momentous occasion for Sophia Gregory, who reached the significant milestone of scoring her 1,000th career point.

Sophia Gregory led the way for West Branch with a standout performance, contributing an impressive 23 points. Livvie Showalter added 12 points to the Warriors’ offensive effort.

Salem, despite a valiant effort, faced a determined West Branch squad. Rylee Hutton led the Quakers’ offensive charge with 12 points, supported by Reese Davidson-Chuck with 8 points and Riley Flickinger with 6 points.

With this win, West Branch (17-2) solidifies its position as a formidable force and will now turn its attention to a non-conference matchup on Saturday, hosting Fitch. Salem (7-11) is determined to bounce back from the defeat, facing NDCL on the road in their upcoming Saturday clash.

WEST BRANCH ARE THE WARRIORS ON TOP

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By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH- On Wednesday night, West Branch 13-2 (8-0 EBC) hosted Carrollton who was coming in with a really solid 13-3 (6-2 EBC) record. In the matchup earlier in the year, Coach Deshields and the Warriors had their way with Carrollton. Tonight’s game was much the same as West Branch played outstanding both offensively and defensively. The final score was a team effort decisive 59-23 win 

 

Livvie Showalter was the big performer of the game leading the Warriors in scoring with 19 points. Her teammates set her up for some great opportunities to score, and she capitalized on the open shots. Sophie Gregory was also in double figures with 11. Gregory’s defense and offensive passing played a pivotal role in the Warriors success. Chloe Dennisson tallied 7 points, while Carter Shepard had 6. It was a collective effort by the team throughout the game as they played unselfishly. 

 

Although Carrollton was disappointed with the outcome of the score, they did have one bright spot. Warrior Guard Hillari Baker scored her 1,000th career point. She finished the game with 10. West Branch made it tough for Carrollton to score the entire game with their pressure defense. Brae Roudebush knocked down 2 threes and finished with 6 points.

 

With the win West Branch improves to 14-2 (9-0 inside the EBC), and they are now the outright EBC champions. Catch the Warriors back in action on Saturday at Struthers. Carrollton drops to 13-4 (6-3 EBC) with the loss. They will look to bounce back on Saturday at home vs Sandy Valley.

ALL FLIGHTS CANCELED IN WEST BRANCH

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By Ty Bartell

BELOIT OH- The West Branch Warriors girls basketball team has been the talk of the town and beyond. Getting attention far and wide, beyond the reaches of local coverage, The Warriors have garnered attention from state media! Sporting an impressive 12-2 record heading into Wednesday night, West Branch looks to, once again, be a stronghold in Division II this season! Members of the very tough Eastern Buckeye Conference (EBC) The Warriors are looking to claim a conference crown for the first time in a few years. Starting off on tack, West Branch has compiled an unblemished 7-0 conference record prior to their Wednesday matchup with The Alliance Aviators.

Despite school being canceled in the day due to the frigid temperatures of Northeast Ohio, The Beloit Brigade came out in bunches to cheer on their Warriors! West Branch gave plenty to cheer about as well, with The Warriors Chloe Dennision lighting it up from distance in the first half. A 20-6 lead for West Branch after the first, only got larger in the second with an emphatic 37-13 lead for The Warriors at halftime. Six shots found the bottom of the basket from beyond the arc in the first half for The Warriors as Dennison clipped five of them herself!

Out of the second half, The Aviators were not allowing the game to go to a running clock and showed plenty of fight to avoid the possibility of that occurring! Hitting a few threes in the second half, The Aviators scrapped and fought tooth and nail to prevent a run away by The Warriors. West Branch would inevitably be able to put away Alliance by a final of 59-35 behind a great scoring tandem of Chloe Dennison and Sophia Gregory, who put up over a combined 40 points on the night!

Both Dennison and Gregory earned Player of the Game honors as Dennison scored a new career-high 22 points off the back of six 3-pointers while Sophia Gregory continued to pace The Warriors with 21 points of her own while filling up the box score in other categories as well! Carter Shepherd and Ellie Tucker were lockdown on defense for West Branch and continue to maximize their role on this edition of The Warriors team and are described by Head Coach Walt DeShields as “The glue who holds everything together.” DeShields said. Find interviews with Coach DeShields as well as players Sophia Gregory and Chloe Dennison below!

The win for West Branch (13-2)(8-0) now sets them up for another EBC bout, this time against another group of Warriors when The Carrollton Warriors (13-3)(6-2) make the trip up to Beloit on Wednesday, January 24th. West Branch got the better of Carrollton 65-36 in their first matchup this season on December 9th. Meanwhile, Alliance (4-12)(3-5) will look to get back to winning in the conference when they host Minerva (4-10)(0-7) on Wednesday, January 24th. Stay updated with West Branch basketball all season long, with live games, scores, stats, stories and more on YSN!

WARRIORS CHARGE COLUMBIANA

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By Michael Ginocchi 


Beloit, OH–  West Branch welcomed Columbiana for a non conference game to Beloit. The Clippers came in with a solid 9-3 record, hoping to give West Branch a good test. Unfortunately, it was all Warriors from the jump and Coach Loudens team cruised to a 74-47 victory. 

 

Once again, West Branch was excellent defensively. They were able to take away the three-ball, which is something Columbiana does well. Offensively, Joey Jackson was able to find his rhythm, scoring 18 points. He said, “I just continue to work hard, and It’s nice to see the results pay off. I keep getting better.”Jaxon Robb was once again  lights out. Robb connected on three triples to also score 18. Cooper Anderson and Gavin Gregory each scored 9 points, while Camden Lane dished out some sweet assists to help his teammates score.

 

It was a tough night for the Clippers as they struggled to rebound and score. Seth Struharik led his team with 12 points. Ian Less connected on 3 shots from beyond the arch to give him 9. Devin Daughtery scored 7 and Alex Euebio contributed 6 for Columbiana. 

 

With the win, West Branch improves to a red hot 11-2 on the season. The Warriors will stay unbeaten inside the EBC against a much improved 8-4 Minerva team on Friday. Columbiana drops to 9-4 with the loss. The Clippers look to bounce back against LIsbon at home in a tough EOAC matchup. The Blue Devils are currently 11-2 and sit atop of the conference.

 

 

WEST BRANCH BEATS DOWN THE DUKES

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ALLIANCE OH- West Branch  used a 14-0 third quarter to turn a one point halftime lead double digits  on its way to a 45-26 victory over the Marlington Dukes.  The win ups the Warriors record to 7-0 in the EBC and 12-2 overall.

The Warriors led the Dukes 15-14 at the break, but solid defense and good permitter shooting blew open a close game for West Branch.  In all, the Warriors would hit a season high seven three pointers tonight.  Chloe Dennison led the way with three triples (12 points overall) while Carter Shepherd hit two (six points overall).  Mati Hawk and Audrey Eaton each knocked down one apiece from behind the arc.  Livie Showalter was strong down low, adding 10 points for West Branch.

The Warriors will head home for another EBC contest with Alliance next Wednesday, January 17th.  Tip off is scheduled following the JV game.

*Contributed By Ryan Wolf at wbathletics.org