WBA Holds On for Narrow 72-70 Victory Over Hazleton in Thrilling Finish
By: Carrie Miner Yaple | Sportzwire | January 4, 2025 | Photo courtesy Carrie Miner Yaple
In a game that came down to the final seconds, Wilkes-Barre Area narrowly escaped with a 72-70 victory over Hazleton this afternoon. Both teams battled back and forth throughout the contest, but it was a late free throw and a defensive stop in the closing moments that allowed WBA to secure the win.
The game was a back-and-forth affair, with Hazleton making a strong push in the second half. After falling behind early, Hazleton rallied in the final minutes of the game, trimming a double-digit deficit down to just one point with 30 seconds remaining. Angel Saladin drilled a clutch three-pointer to make the score 71-70. However, WBA’s Nashiam Ford hit one of two free throws to extend the lead to 72-70 with 19 seconds left.
Hazleton had a final possession to potentially win the game, but they were unable to convert in the final moments. A missed shot sealed the victory for WBA, who managed to hold on despite a strong surge from the Hazleton offense in the final quarter.
Hazleton’s offense was led by Luis Guzman, who finished with 25 points, consistently contributing throughout the game with 8 points in the 1st quarter, 6 in the 3rd, and 11 in the 4th. Dylan Stish provided strong support with 16 points, including key scoring in the 2nd and 3rd quarters to help keep Hazleton in the game. Angel Saladin added 13 points, with a pivotal three-pointer late in the game pulling Hazleton within one point. Franklin Ritz rounded out the scoring with 8 points, but it wasn’t enough to overcome WBA's late-game efforts. For WBA, David Januzzi was the standout performer, scoring a game-high 31 points, including 11 in the first quarter, 10 in the 3rd, and 8 in the 4th, ensuring his team stayed ahead throughout. Mike Keating supported Januzzi with 17 points, contributing consistently across the game and hitting key shots when needed. Nashiam Ford scored 16 including three 3-pointers. Quran Brooks, while limited offensively with just 4 points, played an important role defensively, helping WBA maintain its lead in the second half.
In a game filled with tension and lead changes, WBA ultimately edged out Hazleton 72-70. A late three-pointer from Angel Saladin brought Hazleton within one point, but a clutch free throw from Nashiam Ford sealed the game for WBA. David Januzzi’s 31-point performance helped keep WBA ahead, while Luis Guzman’s 25-point effort led Hazleton’s comeback attempt. Despite their best efforts, Hazleton could not capitalize in the final moments, allowing WBA to hang on for the win.
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