#2 ACCHS Stuns #1 Pocono Mountain West 61-59 with Comeback Victory in OT
By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | January 4, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
In a matchup featuring two of the top high school basketball teams in the region, Allentown Central Catholic staged a dramatic double comeback to edge Pocono Mountain West 61-59 in overtime at ACCHS. The game was a potential preview of the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC) championship and showcased relentless effort, clutch performances, and high-stakes drama.
The game began as a defensive grind, with both teams struggling to find offensive rhythm. Tied at 7-7 after the first quarter, Pocono Mountain West managed a narrow 15-13 lead at halftime. Both teams shot poorly in the first half, with Central Catholic hitting just 6 of 21 field goals and West struggling at 5 for 18 while committing seven turnovers.
Momentum shifted in the third quarter as Pocono Mountain West erupted for 21 points, powered by Adrian Brito’s 12-point surge and Jonathan Mateo’s two three-pointers. The Panthers built a 14-point lead, but Central closed the quarter with a small run to cut the deficit to 10.
The fourth quarter belonged to Central’s seasoned leaders, Jahrel Vigo and Lucas Mushrush. Vigo and Mushrush combined for 17 of the team’s 21 points in the period, with Mushrush’s dramatic three-pointer in the final seconds of regulation forcing overtime. This comeback highlighted Central’s ability to stay composed under pressure.
In overtime, Vigo took over, scoring seven of his game-high 28 points. The Vikings gained their first lead of the game with less than a minute left, thanks to a clutch three-pointer by Mushrush. Key defensive stops, timely free throws from Yariel Gonzalez and Ryan Isbell, and disciplined execution in the closing moments sealed the victory.
Pocono Mountain West, led by Brito’s 21 points, had multiple opportunities but struggled with turnovers and missed free throws in the critical moments. Despite the loss, the Panthers showcased their strength and remain contenders in the EPC.
