Cougars Roar in Round One: Hazleton Area Dominates Garnet Valley in State Playoff Opener
By: Matt Flanagan | SportzWire | March 7, 2026 | Photo courtesy Sportzwire
HAZLETON — The opening round of the state playoffs brought out the best in the Cougars.
Behind a balanced offensive attack and a blistering start, Hazleton Area High School powered past Garnet Valley High School, 71–34, Friday night in the first round of the Class 6A girls basketball state tournament.
Hazleton wasted little time asserting control. The Cougars exploded for 28 points in the first quarter, quickly building a lead that Garnet Valley never seriously threatened. Hazleton continued its offensive surge in the second period with 22 more points, taking a commanding 50–16 halftime advantage and effectively putting the game out of reach.
Several Cougars contributed to the dominant performance. Sophia Benyo led the way with 19 points, knocking down seven field goals and converting five of six from the foul line. Alexis Reimold added 11 points, while Kaitlyn Bindas chipped in 10 points.
Hazleton’s outside shooting also proved to be a major factor. Molly Temchatin drained three three-pointers on her way to nine points, helping stretch the defense and open scoring opportunities inside.
The Cougars were efficient throughout the night, finishing with 28 field goals and matching Garnet Valley with nine made free throws, but generating far more scoring chances. Hazleton’s defense also played a critical role, holding Garnet Valley to just 11 field goals and 34 total points.
For Garnet Valley, Addison Adamski led the Jaguars with 15 points, including a pair of three-pointers, while Kyle Adamski added eight points.
Despite a quieter fourth quarter, Hazleton’s early dominance ensured a comfortable victory and an impressive statement to begin the state tournament.
With the win, the Cougars advance in the PIAA Class 6A state playoffs, showing the kind of offensive firepower and defensive intensity that could make them a dangerous team as the bracket continues to unfold.
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