By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | February 13, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
Allentown, PA – Emmaus High School delivered a commanding performance in the EPC Championship, securing the title with a 59-37 victory over Bethlehem Catholic at the PPL Center. From the opening tip to the final buzzer, the Green Hornets controlled the tempo, executed efficiently on both ends of the court, and left no doubt about their dominance.
Strong Start Sets the Tone
The game started as a competitive battle, with Emmaus leading by just one point, 13-12, at the end of the first quarter. Both teams traded baskets early, but Emmaus gradually found its rhythm, capitalizing on strong defensive play and disciplined offensive execution.
By halftime, Emmaus extended its lead to 29-20, led by a balanced scoring effort and their ability to force tough shots from Becahi. The Golden Hawks struggled to find their offensive groove, as Emmaus’ defense applied consistent pressure.
Second-Half Surge
The Green Hornets came out of the locker room firing on all cylinders. They put together a 19-point third quarter, widening the gap to 48-31 and putting themselves firmly in control of the game. Gabby DeVita, who was named Player of the Game, spearheaded the attack with a stellar 20-point performance, while Kayla Snyder added an impressive 15 points of her own.
Despite the efforts of Becahi’s Palin Coleman, who led her team with 15 points, the Golden Hawks could not generate enough offensive momentum to mount a comeback. Coleman was perfect from the free-throw line, hitting 5-for-5, but Becahi’s shooting struggles, especially from beyond the arc, proved costly. The team failed to make a single three-pointer and relied solely on 16 two-point field goals.
Key Statistics & Team Performance
Emmaus demonstrated its efficiency at the free-throw line, converting 14 of 19 attempts, compared to Becahi’s 5 of 5, all made by Coleman. The Green Hornets also showed their range, knocking down five three-pointers, while Becahi failed to connect from deep. Emmaus finished the game with 14 two-point field goals, executing well in both the half-court and transition.
Championship Celebration
As the final buzzer sounded, Emmaus players and fans erupted in celebration. The Green Hornets’ well-rounded effort on both ends of the floor proved to be too much for Bethlehem Catholic, as they secured the EPC Championship in dominant fashion.
With standout performances from DeVita (20 points), Snyder (15 points), and Sofia Laird (7 points), Emmaus showcased why they were the top team in the league this season. Their ability to control the pace, make key shots, and execute defensively paved the way for a well-earned championship victory.
For Bethlehem Catholic, Kendall Nickischer and Mikaila Brooks each chipped in six points, but the Golden Hawks’ offensive struggles prevented them from keeping pace with Emmaus.