.jpeg "Tunkhannock Edges Hanover Area in Overtime Thriller, 43-40")
Tunkhannock Edges Hanover Area in Overtime Thriller, 43-40
By: Matt Flanagan | Sportzwire | January 16, 2025
Tunkhannock, PA — In a dramatic Wyoming Valley Conference Division 2 matchup on Thursday night, the Tunkhannock Tigers staged a thrilling comeback to defeat the Hanover Area Hawkeyes 43-40 in overtime.
Trailing for most of the game, the Tigers surged back with a 17-point fourth quarter to tie the score and force overtime. In the extra period, Tunkhannock outscored Hanover Area by three points to secure the hard-fought victory on their home court.
Strong Performances Power Tunkhannock’s Comeback
The Tigers were led by Boden Lukasavage, who delivered a clutch performance with a team-high 14 points. Lukasavage hit five field goals, including two crucial three-pointers, and made both of his free throws to help secure the win.
Caden Newswanger also made a significant impact, scoring 12 points. He connected on five field goals, including one from beyond the arc, and added a free throw to his tally.
Jayden Ransom was another key contributor, finishing with 8 points, highlighted by two three-pointers. Makhi Mickels added 7 points, converting both his field goal attempts and going a perfect 3-for-3 from the free throw line. Colin Gregory chipped in 2 points to round out the scoring for Tunkhannock.
Hanover Area’s Effort Falls Just Short
Hanover Area’s offense was driven by a standout performance from Noah Dewey, who scored a game-high 21 points. Dewey was a force throughout the game, converting nine field goals and going 3-for-4 from the free throw line.
Noah Sabecky contributed 6 points, sinking two three-pointers, while Josh Rivera added another 6 points on three field goals. Jayden Coleman also made a notable impact with 7 points, scoring three field goals and making 1 of 2 free throws.
However, the Hawkeyes struggled from the perimeter, managing only two three-pointers in the contest, both from Sabecky.
Game Flow
The game began with Tunkhannock taking an early 11-7 lead in the first quarter, powered by strong defensive play and outside shooting. However, Hanover Area responded in the second quarter with a 13-point effort, led by Dewey’s consistent scoring, giving them a 20-19 halftime advantage.
The third quarter was a defensive battle, with both teams struggling offensively. Hanover Area edged Tunkhannock 8-2 in the frame, expanding their lead to 28-21 entering the final period.
Facing a seven-point deficit, Tunkhannock’s offense erupted in the fourth quarter. Led by Lukasavage and Newswanger, the Tigers poured in 17 points while tightening their defense. Hanover Area managed 10 points, enough to force overtime but not to close out the game.
In the overtime period, Tunkhannock’s defensive intensity and clutch free-throw shooting made the difference. They outscored Hanover Area 5-2, with Lukasavage and Mickels sealing the win at the line.
Key Team Statistics:
• 3-Point Goals: Tunkhannock 5, Hanover Area 2
• Field Goals: Tunkhannock 16, Hanover Area 17
• Free Throws Attempted: Tunkhannock 7, Hanover Area 8
• Free Throws Made: Tunkhannock 6, Hanover Area 4
• Total Points: Tunkhannock 43, Hanover Area 40
Individual Scoring Summary:
Tunkhannock:
• Boden Lukasavage – 14 points (5 FG, 2 3PT, 2-2 FT)
• Caden Newswanger – 12 points (5 FG, 1 3PT, 1-2 FT)
• Jayden Ransom – 8 points (3 FG, 2 3PT)
• Makhi Mickels – 7 points (2 FG, 3-3 FT)
• Colin Gregory – 2 points (1 FG)
Hanover Area:
• Noah Dewey – 21 points (9 FG, 3-4 FT)
• Noah Sabecky – 6 points (2 FG, 2 3PT)
• Josh Rivera – 6 points (3 FG)
• Jayden Coleman – 7 points (3 FG, 1-2 FT)
Looking Ahead
With this hard-fought win, Tunkhannock improves their position in the WVC Division 2 standings. The Tigers showed resilience and poise under pressure, a performance they’ll look to build on in their upcoming matchups.
Meanwhile, Hanover Area will aim to bounce back from the narrow loss, focusing on closing games stronger as they continue their season.
This overtime clash showcased grit and determination from both squads, making it a memorable chapter in the 2025 WVC season.
