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Hazleton Area Holds Off Wilkes Barre Area in One Point Thriller

Hazleton Area Holds Off Wilkes Barre Area in One Point Thriller

By: Brad Loff | SportzWire | February 5, 2026 | Photo courtesy Bob Gaetano

Hazleton Area edged Wilkes Barre Area 44 to 43 in a tight boys basketball matchup Thursday night, surviving a late push to secure the one point win at home.

Hazleton came out strong in the opening quarter, building an early cushion with a 16 to 7 advantage as the Cougars pushed the pace and finished efficiently inside. Wilkes Barre Area settled in during the second quarter, tightening defensively and outscoring Hazleton 13 to 3 to pull ahead at the break.

The game swung back and forth after halftime. Hazleton responded in the third quarter with improved ball movement and timely baskets to regain momentum, while Wilkes Barre Area stayed within striking distance behind perimeter shooting and strong execution in the half court. Neither team was able to create separation in the fourth, setting up a tense final stretch.

With the game on the line in the closing moments, Hazleton made just enough plays on both ends, forcing key stops and converting critical possessions to hold off Wilkes Barre Area’s final push and escape with the victory.

Dylan Stish led Hazleton Area with 16 points, knocking down two three pointers. Kendrick Ortiz finished with nine points, while Yohansal Moran added eight points. Eddie Macko chipped in four points and Oscady Vasquez scored three in a balanced scoring effort.

Wilkes Barre Area was led by David Jannuzzi, who poured in 20 points including five three pointers. Mike Keating added 14 points, while Camrin Shovlin contributed five points and Robert Fuentes finished with four.

Top Player Stats

Hazleton Area

Dylan Stish 16 points, 2 three pointers

Kendrick Ortiz 9 points, 1 three pointer

Yohansal Moran 8 points

Eddie Macko 4 points

Oscady Vasquez 3 points

Xavier Heck 2 points

Kevin Lucas 2 points

Wilkes Barre Area

David Jannuzzi 20 points, 5 three pointers

Mike Keating 14 points