Hazleton Area Dominates Pittston Area in a 76-47 Victory
By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | January 10, 2025 | Photo courtesy Carrie Yaple
January 10, 2025 – High School Basketball Game Recap
The Hazleton Area Cougars delivered a commanding performance on Friday night, securing a decisive 76-47 victory over the Pittston Area Patriots in high school basketball action. The game, held at Hazleton Area’s home court, saw a balanced offensive attack from the Cougars, while Pittston Area struggled to keep pace despite strong individual efforts.
First Quarter: Patriots Start Strong
The game opened with a competitive first quarter, as Pittston Area jumped out to an early lead behind a strong start from Silvio Giardina. The Patriots tallied 13 points, led by Giardina’s scoring efficiency and ability to drive to the basket. Hazleton Area, however, kept the deficit manageable, scoring 10 points of their own, primarily through Yohansal Moran and Angel Saladin.
Second Quarter: Cougars Take Control
The momentum shifted dramatically in the second quarter. Hazleton Area found their rhythm both offensively and defensively, outscoring Pittston Area 22-5. Luis Guzman was a standout in this quarter, scoring several baskets while the Cougars’ defense clamped down on Giardina and the Patriots’ scoring threats. Ryan Staffin also drained a crucial three-pointer, helping extend the Cougars’ lead. By halftime, Hazleton Area had flipped the script and held a commanding 32-18 advantage.
Third Quarter: Offensive Onslaught Continues
Hazleton Area carried their momentum into the third quarter, outscoring Pittston Area 24-16. The Cougars spread the scoring around, with Guzman, Moran, and Dylan Stish all contributing significantly. Stish was especially efficient, scoring multiple times in transition and displaying great finishing around the rim. Despite Pittston Area’s efforts to close the gap, with Giardina adding another handful of points and Aiden Lynn contributing from the free-throw line, the Patriots struggled to contain Hazleton’s balanced offense.
Fourth Quarter: Hazleton Seals the Deal
The final quarter saw Hazleton Area continue their dominance, outscoring Pittston Area 20-13 to seal the victory. Franklin Ritz and Gavin Perkosky made their presence felt with clutch shots in the paint, while the Cougars’ defense continued to pressure Pittston’s ball handlers, forcing turnovers and rushed shots. Giardina remained the primary scoring threat for the Patriots but received limited support as the game slipped further out of reach.
Final Score:
Hazleton Area 76, Pittston Area 47
Team Statistics Summary:
• 3-Point Goals: Hazleton Area (7), Pittston Area (4)
• Field Goals: Hazleton Area (33), Pittston Area (15)
• Free Throws Made/Attempted: Hazleton Area (3/9), Pittston Area (13/19)
• Total Points: Hazleton Area (76), Pittston Area (47)
Individual Performances:
Hazleton Area Cougars:
• Luis Guzman: 15 points (7 FG, 0-2 FT, 1 three-pointer)
• Dylan Stish: 15 points (7 FG, 0 FT)
• Yohansal Moran: 13 points (5 FG, 2-5 FT, 1 three-pointer)
• Angel Saladin: 10 points (4 FG, 1-2 FT, 1 three-pointer)
• Ryan Staffin: 7 points (3 FG, 1 three-pointer)
• Gavin Perkosky: 8 points (3 FG, 2 three-pointers)
• Franklin Ritz: 4 points (2 FG)
• Justin Cruz: 2 points (1 FG)
• Estarling Melenciano: 2 points (1 FG)
Pittston Area Patriots:
• Silvio Giardina: 21 points (6 FG, 6-8 FT, 3 three-pointers)
• Aiden Lynn: 9 points (3 FG, 3-4 FT)
• Matt Walter: 5 points (2 FG, 1-3 FT)
• Paul Jordan McGarry: 4 points (1 FG, 2-2 FT)
• Chris Scavo: 3 points (1 three-pointer)
• Lucas Lopresto: 2 points (1 FG)
• Aidan Clarke: 2 points (1 FG)
• Patrick Burns: 1 point (1-2 FT)
Key Takeaways:
Hazleton’s Balanced Scoring and Defense Shine:
The Cougars demonstrated exceptional depth with four players scoring in double figures and a total of nine players contributing offensively. Their ability to distribute the scoring while maintaining defensive intensity was pivotal in their dominant win.
Pittston Relies Heavily on Giardina:
Silvio Giardina was a standout performer, scoring 21 of Pittston Area’s 47 points, including three shots from beyond the arc. However, his teammates struggled to contribute consistently, which ultimately limited the Patriots’ ability to stay competitive.
Shooting Efficiency and Defense Made the Difference:
Hazleton Area’s superior shooting (33 field goals compared to 15 for Pittston) and a stifling defensive effort in the second quarter were the primary factors in their runaway victory. Pittston’s offense cooled after the first quarter, while Hazleton continued to heat up.
Next Game Outlook:
Hazleton Area looks to carry this momentum into their next matchup vs Wyoming Valley West on Tuesday as Pittston Area will aim to regroup and find offensive balance beyond Giardina as they prepare for their upcoming game.
This win solidifies Hazleton Area’s position as a formidable contender this season, while Pittston Area hopes to learn from this challenging loss and bounce back stronger on their home court Tuesday night vs first place Dallas.
