.jpg "Lackawanna League Division 2 Boys Basketball All-Stars Announced")
Lackawanna League Division 2 Boys Basketball All-Stars Announced
By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | March 19, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
The 2024 Lackawanna League Division 2 (1A-3A) boys' basketball season featured incredible talent, and the league has recognized the top players who made a lasting impact. Nico Antoniacci (Riverside), the league’s leading scorer as a freshman, was named Player of the Year, while CJ Thompson (Holy Cross) and Jakob Lesher (Mid Valley) earned Co-Defensive Player of the Year honors.
Antoniacci’s standout season was complemented by his first-team running mate, Gerry Rose, who helped guide the Riverside Vikings on a deep State Playoff run that ended in the Elite 8 against powerhouse West Catholic.
Meanwhile, Matt Lyons, CJ Thompson, Michael Hughes & Adam Badyrka of Holy Cross remain focused on their pursuit of a state title in 3A, having reached the Final Four of the State Playoffs. They are looking for a return to Hershey for the second consecutive season. Their next challenge? A rematch with West Catholic this Saturday at 2:30 PM at Parkland High School.
First Team – The Best of Division 2
This year’s First Team honors the most dominant players in the league.
Nico Antoniacci (Riverside Vikings) – The league’s top scorer as a freshman, showcasing elite offensive skills.
Gerry Rose (Riverside Vikings) – A key playmaker and leader in Riverside’s playoff run.
Michael Hughes (Holy Cross Crusaders) – A skilled scorer and floor general for Holy Cross.
Matt Lyons (Holy Cross Crusaders) – A versatile two-way player leading his team toward a state championship push.
Cameron Parker (Old Forge Blue Devils) – A consistent playmaker who provided stability for Old Forge.
Logan Fanning (Old Forge Blue Devils) – A dominant force in the paint and an impact player on both ends of the floor.
All-Defensive Team – The League’s Lockdown Defenders
The Defensive First Team highlights the top defensive players in the league.
CJ Thompson (Holy Cross Crusaders) – Co-Defensive Player of the Year, a relentless perimeter defender leading Holy Cross’ Final Four charge.
Jakob Lesher (Mid Valley Spartans) – Co-Defensive Player of the Year, a physical enforcer and rim protector for Mid Valley.
Connor McNally (Riverside Vikings) – A strong defensive presence for Riverside.
Matt Lyons (Holy Cross Crusaders) – A tough, high-IQ defender making key plays on the big stage.
Logan Fanning (Old Forge Blue Devils) – A dominant rebounder and interior defender.
Nate Aviles (Dunmore) – A scrappy, high-energy defender who gave opposing offenses trouble.
Honorable Mentions – Key Contributors
Several players earned honorable mention for their impressive seasons:
Adam Badyvka (Holy Cross)
Connor McNally (Riverside Vikings)
Chase Rosenkrans (Lakeland)
CJ Thompson (Holy Cross Crusaders)
Brayden Canavan (Dunmore)
Brayden Rose (Riverside Vikings)
Demaja Dunston (Mid Valley Spartans)
A Season of Championship Dreams
The 2024 Lackawanna League Division 2 All-Stars highlight some of the best talent in the region, with Nico Antoniacci’s record-setting freshman season and Holy Cross’ continued dominance as defining storylines.
While Riverside’s impressive playoff run ended in the Elite 8, Lyons, Thompson, and Hughes continue to chase a second straight trip to Hershey, as Holy Cross prepares to battle West Catholic in the PIAA 3A State Semifinals this Saturday at 2:30 PM at Parkland High School.
Congratulations to all honorees, and best of luck to Holy Cross as they fight for a return to the state title game!
