Scranton Prep Rallies Late to Stun Valley View, 54-51
By: Justin Bradley | Sportzwire | February 4, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
SCRANTON — In a game that came down to the final minutes, Scranton Prep found its rhythm just in time, overcoming a late deficit to defeat Valley View 54-51 in a crucial Lackawanna League Division I showdown at the Xavier Center.
Trailing by seven points heading into the fourth quarter, the Cavaliers (13-6, 10-1) exploded for 22 points in the final period, fueled by their outside shooting. Brycen Martin led the charge with 14 points, knocking down a game-high six three-pointers, including a pair in the closing stretch to help lift Scranton Prep past the Cougars. Packy Doherty also played a key role, finishing with 11 points, which included a clutch three-pointer and four made free throws in crunch time.
Scranton Prep’s long-range shooting made the difference, as they connected on eight three-pointers, outpacing Valley View’s two. Christopher Ramey (6 points) and Jack Maloney (5 points) each contributed from deep, while Jake Skoff added another three-pointer to the Cavaliers’ total.
Valley View (15-4, 7-4) controlled the game early, jumping out to a 19-13 lead in the first quarter, thanks to strong inside play from Beyon McLean and Noah Veno, who both finished with 12 points. Veno was the Cougars’ lone deep threat, hitting one of the team’s two three-pointers, while McLean relied on his ability to score in the paint. Aidan Smola and Nick Kucharski each added 7 points, but the Cougars struggled to match Scranton Prep’s outside attack late in the game.
Despite a balanced effort, Valley View couldn’t hold off the Cavaliers’ relentless push in the fourth quarter. With momentum on their side and the home crowd behind them, Scranton Prep completed the comeback, securing a hard-fought victory and solidifying their spot near the top of the league standings.
