PIAA Quarterfinals: Loyalsock Township Overwhelms Dunmore in 60-36 Victory
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | March 14, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
WILLIAMSPORT, PA – The Loyalsock Township Lancers stamped their ticket to the next round of the PIAA playoffs with a commanding 60-36 win over the Dunmore Bucks in a highly anticipated Class 3A showdown. The Lancers used a dominant third quarter to pull away, capitalizing on an explosive offensive push and a relentless defensive effort that stifled Dunmore’s scoring opportunities.
Game Recap
The game started as a defensive battle, with both teams struggling to find their rhythm early. Dunmore edged out a narrow 8-7 lead after the first quarter, led by senior guard Sophia Talutto, who carried the bulk of the offensive load for the Bucks. However, Loyalsock adjusted quickly, and by halftime, they had taken control with a 15-7 second-quarter performance, heading into the break with a 22-15 advantage.
Then came the third quarter—a 27-point explosion from the Lancers that all but buried Dunmore’s hopes of a comeback. Lacey Kriebel led the charge with a game-high 24 points, hitting four three-pointers to stretch the Bucks’ defense thin. Alaina Dadzie added 17 points, while Jaekairah Harden provided a strong inside presence with 10 points of her own. Loyalsock’s ability to move the ball and hit open shots turned a competitive contest into a lopsided affair in a matter of minutes.
By the time the fourth quarter began, Dunmore was staring at a 49-22 deficit. Despite a valiant effort from Talutto, who finished with 18 points—including two three-pointers and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line—the Bucks could not claw their way back.
Key Players and Stats
Loyalsock Township (60)
• Lacey Kriebel – 24 points (8 FG, 4-7 FT, 4 3PT)
• Alaina Dadzie – 17 points (8 FG, 1 3PT)
• Jaekairah Harden – 10 points (4 FG, 2-4 FT)
• Julianna Ellis – 5 points
• Zaryah Hawkins – 2 points
• Jillian Kennedy – 2 points
Dunmore (36)
• Sophia Talutto – 18 points (6 FG, 4-4 FT, 2 3PT)
• Amanda Dempsey – 6 points
• Leena Conte – 2 points
• Michelle Nidoh – 2 points
• Lizzie Mendola – 2 points
• Taryn Walsh – 2 points
• Quinn King – 2 points
• Ella Brier – 2 points
Loyalsock’s Defensive Wall
Loyalsock’s suffocating defense made all the difference, holding Dunmore to just 36 total points on the night. The Bucks were limited to 14 made field goals and managed only two three-pointers as the Lancers forced tough shots and clogged the passing lanes.
Turnovers were also a major issue for Dunmore, as Loyalsock’s aggressive press forced the Bucks into mistakes that led to easy transition buckets.
What’s Next?
With the victory, Loyalsock Township (28-2) advances to the final 4, carrying the momentum of one of their most dominant postseason performances yet. The Lancers will now set their sights on their next opponent, looking to maintain the same level of defensive intensity and offensive efficiency.
For Dunmore (24-3), the loss marks the end of an impressive season. Led by Talutto and a strong supporting cast, the Bucks showcased their resilience throughout the year but ultimately fell short against a deeper, more balanced Loyalsock squad.
Final Thoughts
Loyalsock’s explosive third quarter will be the defining memory of this matchup, a testament to their ability to turn defensive stops into offensive fireworks. Meanwhile, Dunmore’s struggles from the field and inability to slow down Kriebel and Dadzie proved to be their downfall.
