Bonner dismantles West York Area to claim first State Title in program history, 62-35
By: Benjamin Snyder | SportzWire | March 20, 2026 | Photo courtesy Thomas Devietro
Hershey, PA –
The Bonner Prendergast Friars are now state champions for the first time in school history. The Friars defeated West York Area to claim the PIAA 5A State Title.
Bonner started slow, shooting 23% from the field during the first quarter. In addition to that, the Friars only scored eight points during the frame.
West York opened game on a 7-0 run, getting the crowd riled up early.
The Bulldogs out rebounded the Friars 11 to 5 during the first quarter, including a 2:1 ratio in blocks.
Bonner found some offensive production during the second quarter, scoring 14 points, 10 of which were scored off turnovers.
Postgame, Kam Jackson spoke on how The Friars got it done, asserting, “Defensively, we keyed in”.
The Friars played gritty defense when it was needed most.
At the end of the first half, West York guard, Chase Cristofoletti knocked down a ridiculous buzzer beater to put The Bulldogs up one.
Postgame, Korey Francis relayed this message regarding halftime, “There wasn’t much said, it was just about effort”.
The Friars have a history of slow starts, however, they always find a way to heat up during the second half.
Bonner toned in defensively during the third quarter, allowing just six points.
The Friars scored 15 points during the third quarter, shooting 50% from the field. Bonner was locked in down low, scoring 10 of their 15 points in the paint during the frame.
Head coach Billy Cassidy spoke with me postgame, and he proved that the Friars work ethic is certainly there, mentioning, “I’m ready to get going tomorrow at 8:00am”.
The team has the willingness to get better and put in the time, and it shows on the court.
Bonner entered a state of dominance during the fourth quarter as they outscored West York Area 25-6. The Friars led in every statistical category during the last quarter.
They showed no remorse, blocking shots, getting rebounds, and turning defense into offense.
The Friars are your 2025-2026 PIAA 5A State Champions.
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