There was a positive vibe throughout the whole gymnasium as Penn State Mont Alto hosted Penn State Worthington Scranton. With Mont Alto's playoff hopes on the line, the team came out strong leading 9-0 at the start of the game. Although Scranton answered back and tied up the score, Mont Alto never gave up.
The games were very even throughout the entire forty minutes of play. But after losing a 12 point lead, Mont Alto came back and finished strong to win the game, 51-46. Cameron Bowens (Frederick/Governor Thomas Johnson) was the leading scorer for Mont Alto with 13 points. Dan Smay (Clearfield/Clearfield Alliance Christian) added 10 points.
"Our two upper classmen stepped up in the second half with some big shots and big plays," commented Mont Alto's head coach, Jack Schenzel. The two teams exchanged the lead multiple times. Worthington Scranton did not give up without a fight. DJ Davis and Hasin Dixon each had 15 points and Dixon added 17 rebounds for Scranton.
With a one point lead at half time, Mont Alto came out in the second half with a win on their mind. And they broke their 8 game losing streak. "We know Tuesday night will not be easy but the guys will come out with more confidence because they tasted victory," said Schenzel.
Playoffs are still possible for the Mont Alto men's basketball team. It will be a tough battle but they believe that there is a good chance. "If we protect our home court and win one on the road at Penn State Schuylkill, we will still be in the running for a playoff shot."
Mont Alto will take on Penn State Brandywine at home on Tuesday, January 31st at 8:00 following Penn State Mont Alto's women's game against Penn State Brandywine at 6:00 p.m.
