Holy Cross Dominates Dunmore in Convincing 79-39 Victory
By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | February 8, 2025 | Photo courtesy Danielle Petros
SCRANTON, PA – The Holy Cross Crusaders, ranked No. 2 in Lackawanna Division II, showcased their dominance on Friday night with a resounding 79-39 win over the Dunmore Bucks. Playing on their home court, the Crusaders put on an offensive clinic, sinking 30 total field goals, including 14 three-pointers, while placing four players in double figures.
Matt Lyons led the way for Holy Cross with an impressive 19-point performance, while Adam Badyrka followed closely behind with 17. Mike Hughes and C.J. Thompson also contributed significantly, adding 11 and 10 points, respectively. The win improved the Crusaders’ season record to 17-3 overall and 11-1 in the division, further solidifying their position as a powerhouse in the league.
First Half: Holy Cross Sets the Tone
Dunmore came out strong in the opening quarter, keeping pace with Holy Cross early on. The Bucks managed 14 first-quarter points, led by Jimmy Clark and Brayden Canavan, but the Crusaders still held a slim 16-14 advantage after one period.
In the second quarter, Holy Cross began to flex its offensive muscle. The Crusaders’ defense tightened, limiting Dunmore to just 9 points in the quarter while their offense erupted for 23. Behind the sharp shooting of Badyrka and Lyons, Holy Cross took control of the game, heading into halftime with a 39-23 lead.
Second Half: Holy Cross Pulls Away
Any hope of a Dunmore comeback was quickly dashed in the third quarter. Holy Cross came out firing, outscoring the Bucks 29-9 in a dominant display of offensive efficiency and defensive intensity. The Crusaders rained down three-pointers throughout the period, with Hughes, Badyrka, and Thompson all connecting from beyond the arc.
By the time the fourth quarter began, Holy Cross had built an insurmountable 68-32 lead. Though the final frame was more evenly contested, with Holy Cross outscoring Dunmore 11-7, the damage had already been done. The Crusaders cruised to a 40-point victory, sending a strong message to the rest of the division.
Team and Player Statistics
Holy Cross (79 points)
• Field Goals Made: 30
• Three-Point Goals: 14
• Free Throws Made/Attempted: 5/7
Top Performers:
• Matt Lyons – 19 points (9 FGs, 1 three-pointer)
• Adam Badyrka – 17 points (6 FGs, 4 three-pointers)
• Mike Hughes – 11 points (4 FGs, 3 three-pointers)
• C.J. Thompson – 10 points (4 FGs, 2 three-pointers)
• Austin Bicking – 5 points (1 FG, 3 free throws)
Dunmore (39 points)
• Field Goals Made: 15
• Three-Point Goals: 3
• Free Throws Made/Attempted: 6/10
Top Performers:
• Jimmy Clark – 9 points (4 FGs, 1 three-pointer)
• Brayden Canavan – 7 points (2 FGs, 1 three-pointer, 2 free throws)
• Carter Sload – 6 points (2 FGs, 2 free throws)
• Jake Costanzo – 5 points (2 FGs, 1 free throw)
• Bobby Hoban – 5 points (2 FGs, 1 free throw)
Key Takeaways
1. Holy Cross’ Shooting Prowess
The Crusaders’ ability to shoot from long range was a game-changer. Knocking down 14 three-pointers, they consistently stretched Dunmore’s defense and created open looks for their shooters. Badyrka, Hughes, and Thompson were particularly lethal from beyond the arc.
2. Defensive Intensity
While Holy Cross’ offensive explosion grabbed the headlines, their defensive performance was just as impressive. They held Dunmore to single-digit scoring in three of the four quarters, applying relentless pressure that forced the Bucks into difficult shots and turnovers.
3. Balanced Scoring Attack
With four players reaching double figures and multiple others contributing, Holy Cross displayed a well-rounded attack. Their depth and unselfish play make them a dangerous team as the season heads into its final stretch.
What’s Next?
With the victory, Holy Cross moves to 17-3 overall and 11-1 in league play, keeping them firmly in contention for the Lackawanna Division II title. They will look to carry this momentum into their next matchup as they push for a strong finish to the season.
Dunmore, now 10-10 overall and 5-7 in division play, will need to regroup and refocus as they prepare for their upcoming games. While this loss was a tough one, they have the talent to bounce back and remain competitive down the stretch.
