Silent Night, Loud Statement: Prep Locks In Early, Rolls Past Delaware Valley in Home Opener
By: Justin Bradley | SportzWire | December 21, 2025 | Photo courtesy Justin Focus Photography
Scranton Prep’s home opener felt like more than a rescheduled game, it felt like a turning point.
Entering Saturday night at 1–2, the Cavaliers were still searching for rhythm after losses to Cardinal O’Hara and Cathedral Prep, with their lone win coming against Devon Prep. Across the floor stood a confident Delaware Valley squad riding a 4–1 start, with its only setback coming against Stroudsburg.
The setting was perfect for a measuring-stick moment.
With the Xavier Center packed and the student section dressed in pajamas and holiday gear, Prep hosted its annual Silent Night Game. When the Cavaliers scored their 10th point, stuffed animals rained down onto the court, collected and will be donated as part of the night’s tradition.
Once play resumed, Scranton Prep took over.
Led by a scorching start from senior Packy Doherty, the Cavaliers jumped out to a 19–5 first-quarter lead and never let Delaware Valley settle, rolling to a 60–29 victory in the Lackawanna League Division I opener.
Doherty set the tone immediately, scoring 12 points in the opening quarter and 16 by halftime, finishing with a game-high 21 points. The senior looked comfortable from the jump, attacking gaps and converting in rhythm.
Sophomore Chicky Skoff added 13 points, providing a steady scoring presence and knocking down shots that kept momentum firmly on Prep’s side.
But the defining trait of the night was defense.
Scranton Prep’s pressure was relentless from start to finish, forcing tough possessions and limiting Delaware Valley’s scoring options. It was a full-team effort built on energy, communication, and buy-in, all hallmarks of a Coach Larry Regan–led program.
Delaware Valley, despite the lopsided score, never stopped competing. Colin McGarvey led the Warriors with seven points, while Trey Newton chipped in five as DV absorbed a setback.
With the win, Scranton Prep moves to 2–2, and more importantly, carry momentum into a loaded stretch for the rest of December.
The Cavaliers will next face Liberty (5–2) from the EPC and District 11 on Monday, before shifting focus to the Lynett Tournament at Lackawanna College. Prep opens tournament play on December 27 at 6 p.m. against Scranton, in a field that also features Holy Cross, unbeaten Dunmore, and a seasoned Scranton Knights squad fresh off celebrating Coach Tony Battaglia’s 400th career victory.
For Delaware Valley, the focus turns quickly forward. The Warriors will regroup and host Notre Dame from District 11 on Monday.
On a night filled with holiday cheer and tradition, Scranton Prep delivered exactly what it needed, energy, execution, and a statement win heading into the holiday season.
