Pittston Area Edges Out Wilkes-Barre Area in Thrilling 67–65 Victory
By: Ruben Bourdeau | Sportzwire | January 21, 2025 | Photo courtesy Ruben Bourdeau
PITTSTON, PA — In a closely contested high school basketball game, Pittston Area narrowly defeated Wilkes-Barre Area 67–65 on Tuesday night. The game, played at Pittston Area’s home court, showcased standout performances, thrilling momentum swings, and a dramatic fourth-quarter finish.
Key Performances and Highlights
Pittston Area’s Silvio Giardina led all scorers with a game-high 26 points, including eight crucial points in the fourth quarter to secure the win. His ability to drive to the basket and sink free throws under pressure proved pivotal in the Patriots’ victory. Giardina shot 8-for-9 from the foul line, demonstrating his composure in high-stakes moments.
Supporting Giardina was Paul Jordan McGarry, who tallied 17 points, including five three-pointers that kept the Patriots competitive during critical stretches. Lucas Lopresto added 13 points, contributing both inside the paint and from the free-throw line, where he was a perfect 5-for-5.
For Wilkes-Barre Area, David Jannuzzi led the charge with 18 points, shooting 6-for-7 from the free-throw line. His scoring consistency kept the Wolfpack within striking distance throughout the game. Tahir Bolden chipped in with 12 points, including two three-pointers, while Mike Keating added 10 points, all from the free-throw line.
Game Summary
First Half: A Defensive Battle
The game began with both teams battling for control in the first quarter. Wilkes-Barre Area took a slim 13–10 lead, thanks to early contributions from Jannuzzi and Bolden. Pittston Area struggled offensively in the opening minutes but gained momentum behind McGarry’s shooting.
The second quarter saw both teams trade baskets, with each scoring 18 points. Pittston Area’s Lopresto and Wilkes-Barre Area’s Jacob Johnson were instrumental during this stretch, with Johnson knocking down three triples to keep the Wolfpack ahead 31–28 at halftime.
Third Quarter: Pittston Area’s Surge
Pittston Area came out strong in the third quarter, outscoring Wilkes-Barre Area 21–12. Giardina and McGarry found their rhythm, combining for 16 points in the period. The Patriots capitalized on Wilkes-Barre Area’s turnovers and took a 49–43 lead heading into the fourth quarter.
Fourth Quarter: A Nail-Biting Finish
The final quarter was a back-and-forth affair as both teams ramped up their intensity. Wilkes-Barre Area, led by Jannuzzi and Bolden, fought back with a 22-point effort, while Pittston Area managed 18 points to hold on for the win. Giardina’s eight points in the quarter included clutch free throws and a key basket in the final minute.
The Wolfpack had opportunities to tie or take the lead in the closing moments but fell short as Pittston Area’s defense held firm.
Team Statistics
Both teams displayed impressive shooting efficiency, with identical 23 field goals made. Free-throw shooting was another even battle, as both teams went 14-for-16 from the line. Pittston Area, however, edged Wilkes-Barre Area in three-point shooting, hitting seven compared to the Wolfpack’s five.
Notable Contributions
• Pittston Area
• Silvio Giardina: 26 points, 2 three-pointers, 8-for-9 free throws
• Paul Jordan McGarry: 17 points, 5 three-pointers
• Lucas Lopresto: 13 points, 5-for-5 free throws
• Wilkes-Barre Area
• David Jannuzzi: 18 points, 6-for-7 free throws
• Tahir Bolden: 12 points, 2 three-pointers
• Mike Keating: 10 points, 6-for-6 free throws
