By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | January 31, 2025 | Photo courtesy Emily Hoban, Doug Noldy-Video
Clarks Summit, PA – January 31, 2025 Highlight Video , Jordan Shaffer Interview
In a commanding performance on Friday night, Abington Heights secured a decisive 58-27 victory over Scranton, showcasing their offensive firepower and defensive prowess in a Lackawanna League matchup. The Comets controlled the game from the opening tip, never allowing Scranton to find their rhythm.
From the outset, Abington Heights established their dominance, jumping out to a 20-7 lead in the first quarter. Their defensive intensity stifled Scranton’s offense, limiting them to just three points in the second quarter, resulting in a 32-10 halftime lead for the Comets.
Scranton showed brief signs of life in the third quarter, scoring 12 points, their highest-scoring frame of the night, but it was not enough to overcome Abington Heights’ well-rounded attack. The Comets continued to execute on both ends, closing the game with a 58-27 final score.
Key Statistics
Abington Heights’ balanced offensive attack was evident in their 22 made field goals, including nine three-pointers, while Scranton managed just ten total field goals and only three shots from beyond the arc. The free-throw battle was nearly even, with Scranton making 4-of-7 attempts and Abington Heights converting 5-of-9.
Team Comparison:
Statistic | Scranton | Abington Heights |
---|---|---|
3-Point Goals | 3 | 9 |
Field Goals Made | 10 | 22 |
Free Throws Made | 4 | 5 |
Free Throws Attempted | 7 | 9 |
Total Points | 27 | 58 |
Abington Heights: Standout Performers
The Comets’ scoring attack was led by Jordan Shaffer, who poured in 19 points, including an impressive three three-pointers. He was efficient and relentless, driving to the basket and knocking down shots from deep.
Supporting Shaffer was Andrew Kettel, who contributed 10 points, including two three-pointers. Robby Lucas added 11 points, making all of his free-throw attempts and hitting one three-pointer.
Other key contributors included Finn Goldberg (5 points, 1 three-pointer) and Ire Osuntokun (3 points, 1 three-pointer), adding to Abington Heights’ strong outside shooting. Conner Abel (4 points, 1 three-pointer), Carter Plantz (2 points), and Gavin Corwin (2 points) rounded out the scoring efforts for the Comets.
Scranton: A Struggle on Offense
Scranton struggled to generate consistent offense against Abington Heights’ stifling defense. Their top scorers were Jayden Burrell (7 points, 1 free throw made) and Johnathon Levine (7 points, 1 three-pointer).
Gabe White contributed 6 points, hitting two three-pointers, while Pedro Lugo added 6 points, including a perfect 2-for-2 from the free-throw line.
Despite the loss, Scranton saw flashes of potential, particularly in the third quarter, but their inability to hit shots from the field and capitalize on free throws kept them from making a serious push.
Game Summary by Quarter:
Quarter | Scranton | Abington Heights |
---|---|---|
1st | 7 | 20 |
2nd | 3 | 12 |
3rd | 12 | 18 |
4th | 5 | 8 |
Final Score | 27 | 58 |