Boys' Basketball News

by Jared Barton

North Allegheny Boys Basketball earned its first section and WPIAL win of the season, taking down section foe New Castle, 57-45, at UMPC Court on Wednesday night.

The game started slow for both teams as North Allegheny held the early edge courtesy of a basket by junior Carter Melzer. That lead lasted for roughly the first four minutes of the contest. NA used a 10-0 run to end the frame behind the strong play of senior Joey Dopirak, who finished the game with 32 points. New Castle stormed back in the second quarter, but North Allegheny still held a 20-19 edge at the half.

The third quarter started in favor of the Tigers, who went on a 9-0 run to begin the period. Sophomore Blake Craft had six of his seven points in that span. Senior Ty Iwanonkiw added some clutch shots in the second half and finished the game with 13 points. NA held a six-point lead at the end of three and outscored New Castle 21-15 in the final quarter to take the victory.

One impressive feat was the defensive effort on Hurricanes junior Ralphie Blundo, who averages over 21 points per game. Melzer was tasked with defending the all-conference player all night, and held Blundo to just 17 points.

Dopirak earned Wright Automotive Player of the Game laurels for his scoring performance.

North Allegheny is now 1-0 in the section and 4-7 overall. NA next takes on Pine-Richland in Gibsonia Friday night.

Boys Basketball vs. New Castle, 1-3-24

GAME SUMMARY
SCORE BY QUARTERS	1	2	3	4	FINAL
New Castle	6	13	11	15	45
North Allegheny	12	8	16	21	57