Dunmore Dominates in First-Round Playoff Victory Over Mount Carmel, 66-25
By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | March 7, 2025 | Photo courtesy Brad Loff
DUNMORE – The Dunmore Lady Bucks wasted no time asserting their dominance in the opening round of the PIAA Class 3A girls basketball playoffs, racing out to an early lead and never looking back as they rolled past Mount Carmel, 66-25, on Friday night.
From the opening tip, Dunmore (23-2) showcased their championship-caliber talent. The Lady Bucks stormed out of the gate with a 16-2 first-quarter run, setting the tone with suffocating defense and sharp shooting from beyond the arc. By halftime, Dunmore had built a commanding 32-12 advantage, effectively putting the game out of reach before the third quarter even began.
Leading the charge was Sophia Talutto, who delivered a stellar performance with 18 points, including three three-pointers. She was a constant offensive threat, slashing through the Mount Carmel defense and knocking down shots from long range. Amanda Dempsey provided a strong secondary scoring punch with 14 points, while Michelle Nidoh added 13, giving the Lady Bucks a well-balanced attack.
Dunmore’s defense was suffocating, limiting Mount Carmel (12-14) to just eight total field goals and forcing numerous turnovers that led to transition points. The Lady Bucks’ aggressive play extended to the perimeter, where they drained seven three-pointers, compared to zero for Mount Carmel.
On the other side, Hannah Fourspring was the lone bright spot for the Red Tornadoes, fighting hard for 13 points and making 7-of-8 free throws. However, she received little support, as Mount Carmel struggled to generate offense against Dunmore’s relentless pressure.
The second half was more of the same, as the Lady Bucks methodically extended their lead. A 15-point third quarter followed by a 19-point explosion in the fourth sealed the dominant victory. By the final buzzer, Dunmore had completed an emphatic 41-point rout, sending a clear message to the rest of the playoff field.
With the win, Dunmore advances to the second round, where they will face District 11 champion Notre Dame Green Pond on Tuesday. With their sights set on a deep playoff run, the Lady Bucks are firing on all cylinders at just the right time.
