.jpg "Holy Cross Crusaders go down to the wire vs Audenried Charter to advance to Elite 8")
Holy Cross Crusaders go down to the wire vs Audenried Charter to advance to Elite 8
By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | March 12, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
EASTON, PA -- Holy Cross punched its ticket to the PIAA Class 3A state quarterfinals after surviving a nail-biting battle against Audenried Charter, 58-55, in the second round at Easton Middle School. The Crusaders now set their sights on District 3’s No. 2 seed, Lancaster Mennonite, in the Elite 8.
Michael Hughes led the charge for Holy Cross with a dominant 20-point performance, including two clutch three-pointers. Matt Lyons was a force as well, adding 17 points and knocking down key free throws to help the Crusaders hold off a late push by Audenried.
Nathan Lee paced Audenried with a double-double, scoring 13 points and grabbing 14 rebounds. Melvin Clarke also tallied 13 points, sinking three shots from beyond the arc, while Isaac Cole contributed 11.
Both teams battled hard from deep, with Audenried knocking down four three-pointers to Holy Cross' two. However, the Crusaders' advantage at the free-throw line proved pivotal, converting 12 of 23 attempts compared to Audenried's 7 of 12.
With momentum on their side, Holy Cross marches into the quarterfinals, ready for their the next test against Lancaster Mennonite.
