Hazleton Area Advances Past Scranton in District 2 Class 6A First Round
By: Matt Flanagan | SportzWire | February 19, 2026 | Photo courtesy Bob Gaetano
Hazleton Area opened the District 2 Class 6A boys basketball playoffs with authority Wednesday night, defeating Scranton 58-40 behind a balanced offensive effort and a dominant third-quarter surge.
After a competitive opening half, Hazleton seized control coming out of the locker room. The Cougars erupted for 22 points in the third quarter, turning a tight game into a comfortable lead they would not give back. Their defensive pressure disrupted Scranton’s rhythm and forced tough shots down the stretch.
Dylan Stish led the way with 17 points, connecting from deep to stretch the floor and ignite the offense. Kendrick Ortiz added 15 points, while Yohansal Moran chipped in 13, giving Hazleton three double-digit scorers and steady production throughout the night.
Scranton was paced by Tony Battaglia, who finished with 16 points and kept the Knights within striking distance early. However, Hazleton’s depth and second-half push proved too much to overcome.
With the win, Hazleton Area advances to the next round of the District 2 Class 6A playoffs, building momentum at the right time as the postseason intensifies.
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