Boys Basketball team competes in districts
Coach Jake Wartella advises the team in between quarters about strategic plays and what to do next. There was a lot of pressure that was put onto the team and the coaches. They pushed through the pressure and it didn’t get in the way of their playing. Wartella said, “It was a great team win against our rival. I’m so proud of our kids for showing resilience by fighting through adversity and finding a way to win a huge playoff game!”
On Tuesday, March 1, the Pottsville Area Boys Basketball team had a game at Minersville against Blue Mountain. This game was the District XI Class 5A Semi Finals. The game was really close throughout until they got into overtime. At halftime the score was tied at 25-25. At the end of the third quarter the score was 38-36, Pottsville was in the lead. At the end of the fourth quarter the score was again tied at 49-49. During overtime Pottsville kicked it into gear and pulled ahead, 60-54.
Senior Jason Fermaintt said, “Before the game I felt like the team was prepared all week for this game. They went over film, practiced the other teams sets, and executed greatly. During the game, it was close but we managed to take them to overtime and then the energy throughout the court was electrifying. After the game, everyone was hype that the boys pulled through in overtime, and secured the win. In my opinion the best part of the game was Mike Sukeena’s block.”
Junior Amaree Bainbridge said, “Before the game I was a little nervous because I knew this could be the last game I played with the seniors. During the game there were many ups and downs and I was very into it. After the game I was relieved because we won and we were all hyped up to get the win. The best part about the game was all the energy everyone brought into the gym.”
The District XI Class 5A Championship was played on Friday March 4, at Blue Mountain against East Stroudsburg South at 7 p.m. The Pottsville Boys Basketball team won 39-38, they were District Champs. Friday night was a great night for the team and the fans. The PIAA State Tournament will be held at Martz Hall at 7 p.m. against Marple Newtown on Tuesday March 8.