The Warrior boys’ basketball team is staying hot after their last week of the regular season. They finished 19-3 in the regular season, closing with a nail-biting 68-65 victory over the Glendale Vikings. Easton Emigh led the Warriors with an outstanding 20 points, while Joel Evans followed with 18 points and 14 rebounds.
However, the team faced a tough challenge on Saturday against the Brookville Raiders. Despite a strong effort, the Warriors fell 66-49, with Owen Koleno leading the team with 19 points. The loss was a setback, but the Warriors remain confident as they enter the postseason.
With playoffs approaching, the team is determined to defend its District 6 title. This season has tested their depth, especially after losing Dylan McGonigal to a season-ending injury. McGonigal was a key contributor, known for his ability to hit crucial three-pointers. Since his absence, players like Coby Kephart and Logan Liptak have stepped up significantly. Liptak has become a defensive force, disrupting opponents with steals and hustle plays, while Kephart has provided energy off the bench, pushing the pace on both ends of the court.
The postseason is looking bright for the Warriors as they hope to defend their District 6 title. The team’s starting lineup has changed throughout the season since losing Dylan McGonigal to a season-ending injury. He was a great contributor, known for making the most of his three-pointers to help his team. Since the injury, Coby Kephart and Logan Liptak have stepped up significantly and have improved greatly throughout the season. Logan has elevated his game with strong defense and key steals, while Coby Kephart has been the first player off the bench in recent games, bringing fast-paced defense to push the tempo.
Senior forward Owen Koleno spoke about his team entering the postseason and his outlook on the next few weeks. “I am excited for the postseason to start. We have a lot of experience in the ICC tournament and Districts. We are hoping to use that to our advantage to make a run at the championship again.”
The Warriors open the postseason on Friday, February 14, at Claysburg-Kimmel High School in the Inter-County Conference semifinals against North Star. If they win on Friday night, they will return to Claysburg on Saturday for the championship. The game is set to tip off at 6:45. All tickets are sold at the door, with prices set at $6.00 for adults and $3.00 for students. Make the trip to support the Warriors!
