Cougar Boys Raise $280 for Coaches vs Cancer in Win Over North Pocono
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | January 29, 2025 | Photo courtesy Rich Kane
The Valley View Cougars not only delivered a dominant 69-41 victory over North Pocono, but they also made an impact in other ways on the court, raising $280 for Coaches vs. Cancer, thanks to a donation from Dickson City Hyundai.
The fundraising effort was tied to the Cougars’ shooting performance, with $30 donated for each three-pointer madeand $5 for every successful free throw. Valley View knocked down seven three-pointers, contributing $210, and converted 14 free throws, adding $70 to the total.
The Valley View Cougars put on a dominant performance, securing a 69-41 victory over North Pocono on Tuesday night. Led by standout performances from senior leaders, Valley View controlled the pace from the start, showcasing a balanced offensive attack and relentless defensive pressure.
First Quarter Surge Sets the Tone
The Cougars wasted no time imposing their will, jumping out to a 23-6 lead in the opening quarter. Beyon McLean, who had a game-high 23 points, set the early tempo with his aggressive drives and efficient shooting. Valley View’s defensive intensity stifled North Pocono, forcing low-percentage shots and limiting second-chance opportunities.
Balanced Offense Fuels Cougars
Valley View’s offense was clicking from all angles. Senior Noah Veno delivered a stellar performance, finishing with 19 points, including four three-pointers. His ability to stretch the floor opened up driving lanes for McLean and Nick Kucharski, who chipped in 13 points while converting five of his eight field-goal attempts.
Aidan Smola added seven points, including a three-pointer, while Jagger Roe contributed a key basket in the second half.
Defensive Dominance
On the defensive end, Valley View limited North Pocono’s offensive threats, holding them to just 41 points. The Cougars forced tough shots and capitalized on defensive rebounds to fuel their transition game.
North Pocono’s Josh Staples led the Trojans with 14 points, while Dylan O’Neill added 12. However, Valley View’s defensive schemes limited their impact, particularly from beyond the arc, where North Pocono managed just three three-pointers.
Key Stats Breakdown
Valley View made 24 field goals, including seven three-pointers, and converted 14 of 20 free-throw attempts. North Pocono finished with 18 field goals, just three three-pointers, and struggled at the free-throw line, making only two of six attempts.
Valley View Individual Stats:
• Beyon McLean: 23 points (8 FG, 5/8 FT, 2 3PT)
• Noah Veno: 19 points (5 FG, 5/6 FT, 4 3PT)
• Nick Kucharski: 13 points (5 FG, 3/4 FT)
• Aidan Smola: 7 points (3 FG, 1 3PT)
• Jagger Roe: 2 points (1 FG)
North Pocono Individual Stats:
• Josh Staples: 14 points (6 FG, 1/2 FT, 1 3PT)
• Dylan O’Neill: 12 points (5 FG, 1/4 FT, 1 3PT)
• Cole West: 6 points (3 FG)
• Anthony Maras: 3 points (1 FG, 1 3PT)
• Evan Wolff & Cael Hafner: 2 points each
With the victory, Valley View improves to 14-3 (6-3 in conference play), continuing their push toward the postseason. North Pocono, now 5-12 (2-7 in conference play), will look to regroup as they move forward in league competition.
