Putting cows on the front page since 1885.
Putting cows on the front page since 1885.
Central's MacKenzie Miller (right) and Penn Cambria'' Emily Hite dive for a loose ball. PC won 46-40.
Central's Erin Brumbaugh attempts to break through Penn Cambria's full court press dribbling around Madison Grove in third-quarter action on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Central High School.
Central's Bailey Hueston shoots over Penn Cambria's Lora Davis on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Central High School.
Central's Kylie Metzger shoots between Penn Cambria defenders Marah Saleme (left) and Bayle Kuasman on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Central High School.
Penn Cambria's Marah Saleme (left) is guarded by Central's Leah Johnston on Thursday, Feb. 20, at Central High School.
The 2019-2020 basketball season came to a surprising close last week when the third-seeded Central Lady Dragons were upset by sixth-seeded Penn Cambria in the opening round of the District 6 Class 3A playoffs on Thursday, Feb. 20.
PC entered the postseason with a 13-9 record, playing most of its games in the Laurel Highlands League, while Central was 17-5 with most of its play in the Mountain League.
The Lady Panthers took an early 15-10 advantage against the homestanding Lady Dragons and led 28-18 at halftime. PC's relentless pressure caused havoc on the Dragons and prevented them from getting comfortably into their half-court offense.
In the second half, the Lady Dragons were able to cut the deficit to just four points with a quick six-point run, but the Panthers responded and still had a nine-point lead entering then final quarter.
After PC stretched its advantage to 13 points, Central played its best basketball of the evening, closing the score to 44-40 in the final minute. Penn Cambria was able to weather the storm and departed with a 46-40 victory. The chaotic pace of play caused both teams to finish with more than 30 turnovers apiece.
For the game, the Lady Dragons connected on just 10 baskets from the field and were 18 of 29 at the free-throw line. Senior Erin Brumbaugh paced the offense with nine points followed by senior Madison Eicher's eight. Senior Mackenzie Miller had seven points (5 of 6 from the line) while star senior Kylie Metzger was held to just four points. A pair of sophomores, Bailey Heuston and Leah Johnston, each scored five points.
"Penn Cambria did a great job doubling on Kylie and their constant pressure kept us from getting her the ball," Central coach Rob Mock said. "I referred to their defense as mass confusion and it really prohibited us from getting any consistent offense rhythm.
"We lose a senior class that had a lot of success on the court and will be tough to replace."
Reader Comments(0)