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Lillian Otto

Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

2025-26 Basketball Season Comes to an End With 58-51 Loss to Central Valley

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 4 minutes read

For the third time this season, Hopewell squared off with Central Valley, this time with everything on the line.

After beating Central Valley twice earlier in the year, everyone knew the third matchup would be the toughest. With a trip to the state playoffs on the line, there was no room for comfort and no space for past wins to matter. It was survive and advance, or go home, with your season over.

First Quarter

The game opened with Brody Rock floating in the first bucket of the night to tie things at 2–2. James Armstrong controlled the glass early, and Tre Cameron attacked the rim to draw a foul and give Hopewell an early spark. Jeremy Benninghoff knocked down a shot to keep things close, but Central Valley responded with energy and shot making. By the end of the first quarter, Hopewell trailed 12–8, and it was clear this would be a fight.

Second Quarter

Hopewell’s defense tightened early and began to generate momentum. A big block by Benninghoff and a steal-and-score from Rock to Cameron cut into the deficit. Armstrong kissed one off the glass. Rock answered a Central Valley three with one of his own to make it 17–19 and keep the crowd alive.

But Central Valley found their rhythm from deep late in the quarter. Hopewell struggled to close out on shooters, and the lead stretched with Central Valley carrying a 28–17 advantage into halftime.

Third Quarter

Down double digits with their season hanging in the balance, Hopewell responded with heart, refusing to fold.

Rock took over offensively, floaters over defenders, a fast-break layup, a smooth baseline jumper, and a steal that turned into two more points. Benninghoff buried a three from the wing. Armstrong battled inside and capitalized on turnovers.

Every run Hopewell made, Central Valley answered. Still, the fight was there. Heading into the fourth quarter, Hopewell trailed 42–32, but no one on that bench believed the season was over.

Fourth Quarter

The final eight minutes embodied everything about this team and their run this year.

Rock drilled back-to-back threes to match Central Valley shot for shot. Armstrong muscled in a hook shot. Nick Adams cleaned up a put-back. Rock attacked the rim again. Then Armstrong delivered the moment that brought everyone to their feet, a clutch basket through contact, plus the foul, cutting the deficit to just two.

Justin Shegog calmly knocked down two massive free throws. Jack Biega split a pair at the line. The pressure was suffocating, the gym was electric, and Hopewell kept battling possession after possession to stay within range to try and complete the comeback.

In the closing moments though, Central Valley was able to pull away just enough to hold Hopewell at bay. In a fitting end to the season, Nick Adams scored the final points of his basketball career and when the final buzzer sounded, Central Valley end up on top, 58–51.

Final Thoughts from Coach Biega

I connected with Coach Doug Biega after the game to get his thoughts on the game and season. “The experience we gained this season and the successes that we’ve had will last forever in the rebuild of this program. This program was on its deathbed. And these guys resurrected it. I cannot be any prouder than I am to be their coach.”

I know this wasn’t the outcome Hopewell wanted. It wasn’t the ending they worked all season for. But it was a game that defined resilience, toughness, and brotherhood, which is what defined this team all year long.

Beating a good team twice is hard. Beating them a third time with a state playoff berth on the line is one of the toughest challenges in sports. On this night, Central Valley earned it.

But Hopewell walked off the floor with heads high knowing this truly is just the beginning. I speak for everyone in Hopewell by saying thank you for providing all of us with such a fun and entertaining season of Basketball and we can’t wait to see what lies ahead next year.

Game Recap

1ST QUARTER

2-2 floater by Brody

Rebound by boo boo

Leading to foul on floater from tre 4-3

Foul on boo boo, 6-3

End of first 8-12 CV

2ND QUARTER

Great defense leads to CV turnover

Block by Jeremy, CV leads 8-15

Steal by Brody and then layup by Tre 10-15

Jeremy for 2 pt floater 12-16

Floater off the glass boo boo 14-16

Brody answers a CV 3 with a 3, 17-19

Hopewell is struggling to guard the 3 pt line

Jeremy for a foul shot, 18-27

End of Half: Cv up 17-28

3RD QUARTER

20-28 Rock floats it over the defenders’ head for two

21-30 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

23-30 Rock gets a fast break layup

26-33 Benninghoff swishes a three from the wing

28-33 Rock hits another base line jumper

30-35 Rock gets the steal plus the layup

32-37 Armstrong capitalizes off of a CV turnover for another layup

32-42 End of 3rd Quarter

 

4TH QUARTER

35-45 Rock matches a CV three with a Hopewell three

38-45 Another three pointer drops for Rock

40-48 Armstrong hits a hook shot for two

42-48 Nick Adams scores off a put-back

44-48 Rock scores off yet another layup

46-48 Armstrong gets the clutch basket plus the foul

48-50 Justin Shegog makes 2 of 2 free throws

49-52 Jack Biega makes 1 of 2 free throws

51-58 Adams gets his last points of his basketball career

51-58 Final

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Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

Hopewell Can’t Complete Comeback, Loses to Deer Lakes in Quarterfinals

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 3 minutes read

WEXFORD– Hopewell took on Deer Lakes on Wednesday night in their WPIAL 4A Quarterfinal Matchup at North Allegheny High School.

The game opened evenly, with Justin Shegog scoring the first basket for Hopewell. James Armstrong answered Deer Lakes, and the two teams traded baskets throughout the first quarter. Shegog hit a three from the corner and scored on a layup, while Armstrong added multiple layups and converted a steal into a score. The first period ended tied, 13–13.

In the second quarter, Deer Lakes built a lead with quick inside scoring, forcing a Hopewell timeout. After the break, Hopewell managed to keep pace, but Deer Lakes’ perimeter defense made it difficult for Hopewell’s guards. Hopewell ran more offense through Armstrong, but Deer Lakes still carried a 33–20 advantage into halftime.

Down 13 at the start of the third quarter, Hopewell began to narrow the gap. Armstrong opened with a rebound put-back, and Brody Rock hit a three-pointer for his first points of the game. Hopewell’s defense improved, limiting easier Deer Lakes opportunities and forcing tougher shots. Hopewell kept pace through the quarter, and a half-court buzzer shot by Jack Biega gave them momentum heading into the 4th. After three quarters, Deer Lakes led 49–38.

In the fourth quarter, Hopewell continued to work through Armstrong, scoring on multiple possessions including a feed from Rock. Hopewell slowly cut into the lead and got within seven points with about four minutes remaining. Justin Shegog hit two clutch three-pointers late in the game, first cutting the lead to six, and then bringing it to a single possession at 62–59 with 1:29 left in the game.

Deer Lakes responded quickly though and rebuilt a five-point lead. After a foul and a turnover by Hopewell, Deer Lakes quickly extended the margin to nine, and just like that the game was out of reach. Hopewell fouled to try and extend the game, but Deer Lakes was able to close out the game with a final score of 71–59.


I was able to connect with Coach Doug Biega after the game to get his thoughts on the game and the season overall.

“Definitely a lesson learned,” said Coach Biega. “When you play teams that have been there and done that, they sort of show you how to play until you adapt. And until you are a team that has been there and has done that, you’re in learning mode. But they showed a lot of heart and grit and came back and had it down to one possession in the 4th quarter. I’m super proud of them and that’s all you can ask for”

The season is not over though. Because Hopewell made the WPIAL 4A Quarterfinals, and that 5 teams come out of the 4A Division for the PIAA State Playoffs, games will continue in the consolation bracket to determine the 5th team who goes to the PIAA State Playoffs.

Hopewell will host Belle Vernon on Monday, 2/23 at 7 PM in the first game of the consolation bracket at Hopewell High School.

Game Recap:

1ST QUARTER

2-0 Justin Shegog hits the first shot of the game

4-4 James Armstrong spins to the basket for two

7-6 Shegog drills a three from the corner

9-8 Armstrong gets another layup to fall

11-11 Shegog gets two off a layup

13-13 Armstrong gets the steal and converts it into two

13-13 End of 1st Quarter

 

2ND QUARTER

14-17 Tre Cameron makes 1 of 2 free throws

16-21 Armstrong muscles in for two

18-23 Jeremy Benninghoff with a nice take to the rim

19-31 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

20-31 Cameron makes 1 of 2 free throws

20-33 Halftime

 

3RD QUARTER

22-35 Armstrong gets the rebound and the put-back

25-37 Brody Rock gets his first points on a three-pointer

27-37 Armstrong makes 2 of 2 free throws

29-41 Another basket drops for Armstrong

31-43 Armstrong hits a two-pointer

33-45 Rock gets a backwards layup to fall

35-47 Armstrong gets the bucket plus the foul

38-47 Jack Biega drills a half court buzzer beater

38-47 End of 3rd Quarter

 

4TH QUARTER

39-47 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

41-51 Armstrong scores on a feed from Rock

43-53 Cameron gets the steal and the bucket

45-55 Armstrong for two

47-56 Benninghoff hits a floater

49-56 Armstrong hits another shot, decreasing the deficit

51-58 Shegog makes 2 of 2 free throws

54-60 Shegog swishes a three-pointer

56-60 Armstrong gets another rebound and put-back

59-62 Shegog drills another clutch three

59-71 Final

 

Individual Points:

James Armstrong: 28

Justin Shegog: 15

Tre Cameron: 4

Jeremy Benninghoff: 4

Brody Rock: 5

Jack Biega: 3

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Hopewell HS Girls Basketball

Hopewell Girls Basketball’s Season Ends w/Loss to Elizabeth Forward

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 3 minutes read

Hopewell traveled to Elizabeth Forward on Monday night for their WPIAL 4A 1st Round Playoff matchup, a rematch from their 1st Round game in 2025.

The opening quarter set the tone for a competitive start. Avery Boyd ignited the offense early, converting a fast-break layup to put her team on the board. Allison Ramaley followed with a smooth mid-range jumper, and Caylee Sundy showed poise at the line, knocking down two free throws. Sundy continued to make her presence felt with a wide-open layup, while Ava Ray turned defense into offense with a steal and finish. Elizabeth Forward closed the quarter on a run, taking a 13–10 lead.

The second quarter proved decisive. Boyd attacked the rim for a strong finish, then delivered a three-point play to try to keep the deficit manageable. She calmly added the free throw to complete the play. Elizabeth Forward kept coming though, and even though many of their long-range shots we’re falling, they continued to control the rebounds, converting on second chance opportunities and extending their lead to 30-15 at the Half.

Coming out of the break, Hopewell showed resilience. Sundy curled off a screen for a jumper and later buried a three-pointer off an inbounds play to inject energy into the offense. Ray added another determined drive to the basket, and Sundy chipped in at the free-throw line. Hopewell tightened up their defense and held the Warriors to just 8 points in the 3rd quarter but could not find their rhythm offensively and trailed 38-23 heading into the final frame.

The fourth quarter showcased the team’s fight. Sundy knocked down another three-pointer and later scored on a well-executed inbounds set. Boyd answered with a three of her own and attacked the basket for two more. Sundy also created for her teammates, delivering a sharp pass that led to a Boyd layup. With a minute left in the game, seniors Sundy and Ramaley exited the game to a standing ovation from the Hopewell crowd.

Abigail Kovell added a late elbow jumper and when the final buzzer sounded, Elizabeth Forward proved victorious 58-37.

Though a playoff loss marks the end of a season, it does not define it. The team demonstrated resilience from the very beginning, overcoming early-season injuries that left the roster shorthanded and forced players into expanded roles. Instead of folding, the group adapted, chemistry developed and injuries healed, leading to several key victories down the stretch that ultimately secured a berth in the WPIAL playoffs.

That midseason surge spoke volumes about the team’s character. Players embraced new responsibilities, younger contributors gained invaluable varsity experience, and the group found its identity through hard work and collective effort. The lessons learned will prove extremely valuable as the returning players continue their high school careers.

Thank you, girls, for a great season. You played hard, competed with heart, and represented Hopewell with pride and passion.

Game Recap:

1ST QUARTER

2-0 Avery Boyd scores off a fast-break layup

4-4 Allison Ramaley hits a two-point jumper

6-4 Caylee Sundy makes 2 of 2 free throws

8-8 A wide-open layup falls for Sundy

10-8 Ava Ray converts a steal to a layup

10-13 End of 1st Quarter

2ND QUARTER

12-20 Boyd takes it to the rim

14-28 Boyd gets the basket plus the foul

15-28 Boyd makes 1 of 1 free throw

15-30 Halftime

 

3RD QUARTER

17-32 Sundy hits a jumper off a screen

19-36 A three falls for Sundy off an inbounds pass

22-38 Ray with a nice take to the hoop for two

23-38 Sundy makes 1 of 2 free throws

23-38 End of 3rd Quarter

 

4TH QUARTER

26-40 A three pointer falls for Sundy

29-44 Boyd swishes a three pointer

31-46 Boyd drives to the basket for two

33-49 Sundy scores a layup off an inbounds pass

35-52 A nice pass from Sundy leads to a Boyd layup

37-52 Abigail Kovell hits an elbow jumper

37-58 Final

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Hopewell HS Girls Basketball

Hopewell Girls Inch Closer to Playoffs with Win Over Central Valley

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 3 minutes read

After an amazing showing Wednesday night against Lincoln Park, the Hopewell High School Girls Basketball team went on the road to Central Valley and kept their momentum, battling through a tight, back-and-forth matchup, and pulling away late to secure a hard-fought 45–40 victory. With balanced scoring and clutch free throws down the stretch, the Vikings showed composure in a game that stayed close from start to finish.

RECAP:

1st QUARTER-

Hopewell came out aggressive in the opening quarter, with Allison Ramaley getting things started with a baseline jumper. Avery Boyd attacked the basket early, while Addison Blosnick added a strong inside presence, scoring multiple times and converting through contact. Boyd continued to pressure the defense with drives and a score off a great feed from Caylee Sundy. Despite Hopewell’s strong offensive rhythm, Central Valley answered, and the quarter ended deadlocked at 13–13.

2nd QUARTER-

The Vikings kept pushing in the second quarter as Blosnick knocked down free throws and finished inside off another sharp pass from Sundy. Boyd gave Hopewell a spark by burying a three-pointer and scoring on a wide-open layup. The game remained tight throughout the quarter, with both teams trading baskets, and Central Valley held a slim 24–22 lead heading into halftime.

3rd QUARTER-

Hopewell regrouped after the break and leaned on Sundy, who swished an elbow jumper to open the scoring. Blosnick and Boyd each added free throws as defense took over on both sides. The Vikings limited Central Valley’s opportunities and stayed composed, keeping the game within reach as the third quarter ended with Hopewell trailing just 28–25.

4th QUARTER-

The Vikings delivered their strongest performance in the final quarter. Boyd stepped up in a big way, hitting a clutch three and calmly converting multiple trips to the free-throw line. Blosnick continued to dominate inside, attacking the rim and going a perfect 2-for-2 at the line late. Ava Ray added a key three-pointer to extend the lead, while Sundy chipped in from the stripe. Hopewell closed the game with confidence, outscoring Central Valley down the stretch to seal the 45–40 win.

With the road victory, Hopewell showcased resilience, teamwork, and poise in pressure moments. The balanced scoring effort and strong fourth-quarter execution proved to be the difference as the Vikings continue to build momentum moving forward.

 

1st QUARTER SCORING

2-0 Allison Ramaley hits a base line jumper

4-4 Avery Boyd takes it to the hoop for two

6-4 A layup goes in for Blosnick plus the foul

8-6 Blosnick hits a jumper

10-8 Boyd goes in for a left-hand layup

12-10 Boyd scores off a feed from Caylee Sundy

13-10 Ramaley makes 1 of 2 free throws

End of 1st Quarter: 13-13

2nd QUARTER

15-16 Addison Blosnick makes 2 of 2 free throws

18-16 Boyd splashes a three

20-16 Great pass from Sundy to Blosnick for two

22-22 Boyd gets two off a wide-open layup

Halftime: Central Valley 24 Hopewell 22

3rd QUARTER

26-23 Sundy swishes an elbow jumper

27-23 Blosnick makes 1 of 2 free throws

28-25 Boyd makes 1 of 2 free throws

End of 3rd Quarter: Central Valley 28 Hopewell 25

4th QUARTER

29-30 Boyd makes 1 of 2 free throws

30-30 Blosnick makes 1 of 2 free throws

33-33 Boyd splashes a three

35-33 Boyd makes 2 of 2 free throws

37-33 Boyd makes 2 of 2 free throws

40-33 A three pointer falls for Ava Ray

42-35 Blosnick takes it to the rim for two

44-35 Blosnick makes 2 of 2 free throws

45-40 Sundy makes 1 of 2 free throws

Hopewell 45-40: Final

 

HOPEWELL SCORING:

Avery Boyd: 20 points

Blosnick: 14 points

Sundy: 3 points

Ramaley: 3 points

Ray: 3 points

*The Vikings play their final regular season game at Ambridge at 12:00 on Saturday, 2/7. If they win this game, they secure their spot in the playoffs. Come cheer on our girls!

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Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

Hopewell HS Boys Basketball with Huge Last-Second Win Over Avonworth

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 5 minutes read

The Hopewell HS Boys basketball program hasn’t recorded many meaningful wins over the last decade but in the last couple of weeks, this 2025-26 team has picked up two in consecutive weeks.

The first one took place on the road at Central Valley and then last night, the Vikings fought for a last-second win over Avonworth. Because of this Hopewell has put themselves in position to possibly qualify for the playoffs for the first time in 16 years.

Last night, Hopewell battled in an intense game through four hard-fought quarters and came up with a clutch 51–49 victory, leaning on timely scoring, toughness in the paint, and big plays down the stretch to seal the win.


Hopewell got off to a steady start in the opening quarter, with James Armstrong scoring inside off a nice feed from Brody Rock and later attacking the rim again to keep things close. Rock knocked down a big three to spark the offense, while Justin Shegog added points at the free-throw line. Armstrong continued to be aggressive, earning trips to the line as Hopewell stayed right with their opponent heading into the end of the first.

The Vikings found their rhythm in the second quarter, highlighted by Shegog finishing a strong inbounds play for an and-one and Tre Cameron attacking the baseline for a floater and a foul. Cameron stayed active on the glass, scoring off a put-back, while Rock calmly converted at the free-throw line. Hopewell’s balanced scoring and physical play helped them take a 23–20 lead into halftime.

Hopewell came out of the locker room with energy, as Rock set up Shegog for another and-one before drilling a deep three of his own. Armstrong continued to dominate inside, scoring through contact and getting to the line, while Jack added a key layup late in the quarter. The game stayed tight throughout, but Hopewell edged ahead 38–37 heading into the final frame.


In a tense fourth quarter, Hopewell delivered when it mattered most. Shegog opened the scoring with a strong one-handed floater, and Cameron knocked down a jumper to keep the momentum going. Armstrong battled underneath for multiple tough baskets, and Rock came up with the play of the night, turning a steal into a clutch layup. Armstrong sealed it at the line, and Hopewell’s defense held strong in the final moments to secure the 51–49 win.

With contributions up and down the lineup and poise in the closing minutes, Hopewell showed grit and composure in a hard-earned victory that could serve as a momentum-builder moving forward.

One thing to keep in mind, is this team is starting five sophomores. Senior Nick Adams, who’s been a regular starter all season, has been out with a hand injury and he’s still recovering from it. Last night, Adams was able to contribute some minutes off the bench.

1ST QUARTER:

2-4 James Armstrong scores on a nice feed from Brody Rock

4-6 Justin Shegog makes 2 of 2 free throws

6-11 Armstrong scored on a take to the hoop

9-11 Rock splashes a three

10-11 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

End of 1st Quarter: Avonworth 11 Hopewell 10

2ND QUARTER:

12-11 Shegog scores on a nice inbounds pass plus the foul

13-11 Shegog makes 1 of 1 free throw

15-14 Tre Cameron takes the base line for a floater plus the foul

16-14 Cameron makes 1 of 1 free throw

18-14 Shegog gets two plus the foul with a nice take to the basket

19-20 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

21-20 Rock makes 2 of 2 free throws

23-20 Cameron scores on a put-back floater

Halftime: Hopewell 23 Avonworth 20

3RD QUARTER:

25-22 Rock to Shegog for two plus the foul

28-24 Big three pointer for Rock

29-28 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

33-31 Armstrong takes it to the rim for two

34-33 Shegog makes 1 of 2 free throws

36-35 Armstrong goes in strong for a floater

38-37 Jack drives down the court for a layup

End of 3rd Quarter: Hopewell 38 Avonworth 37

4TH QUARTER:

40-37 Shegog goes in strong for the one-handed floater

42-40 Cameron hits a jumper from the line

44-46 A hook shot for Armstrong drops in for two

46-48 Armstrong works hard underneath to score off a put-back

48-48 Shegog hits a baseline jumper

50-49 Rock coverts a steal to a clutch layup

51-49 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

Avonworth was fouled with .06 seconds left and went to the free throw line with 2 shots to potentially tie the game. After missing the first one, the shooter intentionally missed the second one with the hopes of one of his teammates tipping it in for the tying basket. That didn’t work.

FINAL: HOPEWELLL 51 AVONWORTH 50

 

Points (Unofficial):
Armstrong: 16 points

Shegog: 14 points

Rock: 10 points

Cameron: 7 points

Biega: 2 points

Before the Varsity team played, the JV team played in another intense game. Although the final score may not show it, the boys fought hard, led by Avery Bokor who had a whopping 28 points.

1ST QUARTER

2-6 Avery Bokor takes it to the basket for a layup plus the foul

3-6 Bokor makes 1 of 1 free throw

5-8 Zack Sampson hits a nice floater

7-8 Bokor makes 2 of 2 free throws

10-8 A deep three slashes for Bokor

12-10 Bokor scores again on a take to the rim

14-10 Jayvion Lindsay gets two on a fast break layup after a steal

End of 1st Quarter Hopewell 16 Avonworth 15

2ND QUARTER

18-15 A floater drops for Lindsay

20-20 Lindsay turns a steal from Bokor into two points

22-21 Bokor hits an elbow jumper

Halftime: Avonworth 30 Hopewell 24

3RD QUARTER

25-30 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

26-36 Sampson makes 1 of 2 free throws

29-41 Bokor swishes another long three

32-45 A jump shot goes in for Sampson

34-50 Lindsay makes 2 of 2 free throws

36-50 Sampson scores off a put-back

 End of 3rd Quarter: Avonworth 50 Hopewell 36

 

4TH QUARTER

37-53 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

40-55 Bokor hits another three, his third of the night

42-55 Bokor turns a steal into a fast break layup

44-57 Bokor scores again with a two pointer

46-57 Another layup converts for Bokor

47-63 Bokor makes 1 of 2 free throws

49-65 Bokor gets a layup to fall plus the foul

50-65 Bokor makes 1 of 1 free throw

51-70 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

 Final: Avonworth 70 Hopewell 51

 

Points (Unofficial):
Bokor: 28 points

Lindsay: 11 points

Sampson: 7 points

The Vikings play in the Boys Hall of Fame Classic Tournament tomorrow, Saturday January 24 at North Hills High School at 12:30. Then they play at Beaver on Tuesday January 27. JV at 6:00, Varsity at 7:30.

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Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

Hopewell Boys Basketball Defeat Sto-Rox, 80-67, for 9th Win of Season

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 3 minutes read

Our Hopewell Vikings faced off against Sto Rox. They came out strong and never looked back, pulling away in a hard-fought game to secure a well-earned win.

Hopewell opened the game with strong energy, taking an early lead in the first quarter. James Armstrong powered inside for a layup, setting the tone for the team, and Jack Biega added a smooth three-pointer to extend the advantage. While Sto Rox stayed close, Justin Shegog and Armstrong kept the scoring balanced with efficient inside plays, and Rock contributed with a deep three. Hopewell maintained a slight edge, ending the quarter ahead 22-20 after a series of clutch baskets from Benninghoff and Rock.

In the second quarter, Hopewell started to pull away with aggressive defense and smart offensive execution. Rock knocked down another three, while Shegog’s hustle on the boards led to multiple put backs. Armstrong ignited a fast break layup after a steal, and the team continued feeding off his energy. Freshman Zack Sampson made an immediate impact off the bench with a layup, and Biega’s drive to the basket widened the margin. Hopewell went into halftime leading 39-33, thanks to their balanced scoring and tenacious effort on both ends.

The third quarter saw Hopewell extend their lead with a combination of perimeter shooting and precise passing. Biega drained a corner three, and Rock added an elbow jumper to keep the offense flowing. Avery Bokor contributed with multiple layups and a smooth floater, while Armstrong dominated inside, drawing fouls and converting crucial free throws. The team’s cohesive movement and smart shot selection pushed the lead to 61-49 by the end of the quarter, giving Hopewell a comfortable cushion heading into the final period.

Hopewell closed out the game in the fourth quarter with poise and determination. Armstrong continued to draw fouls and convert from the line, while Bokor showed off his scoring versatility with fast break layups, floaters, and consistent free throws. Rock and Shegog connected on several key plays, including a textbook quarterback-style assist from the other side of the court to Shegog for an easy basket. Hopewell’s energy never wavered, and their disciplined execution allowed them to finish strong, claiming an 80-67 victory and capping off a dominant team performance.

This nice win should give the Vikings momentum going into their next games.

1ST QUARTER

2-0 James Armstrong strong underneath for a layup

5-2 Jack Biega swishes a three-pointer

7-5 Justin Shegog inside to Tre Cameron for two

9-8 Armstrong gets the basket plus the foul

12-8 Rock for three

14-15 Shegog gets a layup to go through

16-15 Armstrong battles for a nice take to the basket for two

18-17 Benninghoff with an easy lay by a nice pass from Armstrong

20-17 Rock inside for two

22-20 Benninghoff with a put-back for two

22-20 End of first quarter

2ND QUARTER

25-23 Three pointer for Rock

27-23 Nice rebounding by Shegog leads to a put-back

29-23 Armstrong has a fast break layup off a steal

31-26 Shegog for two off a fast break layup

33-26 Feed from Armstrong gives Shegog another two

35-28 Zack Sampson fresh off the bench with a layup

37-28 Biega goes all the way in for two

39-33 A steak turns into to two for Shegog

39-33 Halftime

3RD QUARTER

44-34 Biega swishes a corner three

46-34 Elbow jumper for Rock

48-35 A gorgeous feed from Rock leads to an Avery Bokor layup

49-37 Shegog makes 1 of 2 free throws

51-37 Biega powers through for a nice layup

53-40 Hook shot for Armstrong plus the foul

54-40 Armstrong makes 1 of 1 free throws

56-42 Armstrong makes 2 of 2 free throws

58-45 Bokor with a floater for two

61-45 Nice three pointer for Bokor

61-49 End of third quarter

4TH QUARTER

62-51 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

64-51 Fast break layup for Bokor

65-51 Bokor makes 1 of 2 free throws

67-51 Bokor makes a nice floater over a defender

68-53 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

72-55 Shegog to Armstrong for two

74-55 Rock with a put-back for two

76-61 Quarterback throw from Rock sets Shegog up for an easy layup

78-65 Rock makes 2 of 2 free throws

80-67 Shegog to Armstrong for two

Unofficial Numbers:
Armstrong 20 points
Justin Shegog 13 points
Brody Rock 14 points
Jack Biega 10 points
Avery Bokor 12 points

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Hopewell HS Girls Basketball

Hopewell HS Girls Basketball Battle to Win Over Central Valley

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 2 minutes read

The Hopewell Girls High School Basketball Team hosted Central Valley in an intense matchup on Monday night.

Despite a slow start, the Vikings kept their poise and responded strong, displaying solid teamwork and timely scoring over the final three quarters.

Led by standout performances from Avery Boyd, Addison Blosnick, and Lily Enders, Hopewell battled from start to finish and secured a convincing win that could help turn their season around.

Boyd opened the scoring off a feed from Ava Ray, but Hopewell trailed 2–9 at the end of a quiet first quarter.

The Vikings came alive in the second quarter, with Enders, Blosnick, Boyd, and Allison Ramaley all contributing. Key layups and free throws helped Hopewell take an 18–17 lead into halftime.

Boyd and Ray knocked down three-pointers to start the third, while Enders, Ramaley, and Blosnick added points in the paint and at the line. Hopewell extended the lead to 41–26 by the end of the third quarter.

The final quarter highlighted Hopewell’s strong ball movement and efficient finishing. Blosnick led the way with multiple layups and free throws as the Vikings closed out the game, earning a 49–37 victory.

GAME RECAP

1ST QUARTER-

2-3 Avery Boyd scores on a feed from Ava Ray

2-9 End of 1st Quarter

2ND QUARTER-

4-9 Lily Enders runner

6-11 Addison Blosnick drives for a layup

8-11 Boyd with fast break layup, great pass from Ramaley

10-11 Ramaley layup off Enders pass

12-11 Boyd with the reverse layup

14-11 Blosnick 2 for 2 FT

16-11 Enders layup off the Ramaley pass

18-15 Enders turnaround bank shot

18-17 Halftime

3RD QUARTER-

21-17 Boyd gets the three plus harm

22-17 Boyd makes 1 of 1 free throws

25-17 Ray swishes a three pointer

27-19 Enders drives to the rim for two

29-19 Ramaley makes an elbow jumper

30-19 Blosnick makes 1 of 2 free throws

32-21 Enders with another layup under the basketball

34-21 Ray makes 2 of 2 free throws

35-22 Ray makes 1 of 2 free throws

37-22 A layup for Boyd off a nice pass from Enders

39-22 Boyd converts a steal to a fast break layup

41-24 Enders a nice layup plus the foul

41-26 End of 3rd Quarter

4TH QUARTER-

43-26 Great ball movement leads to Blosnick basket

45-28 Blosnick makes 2 of 2 free throws

47-30 Blosnick banks it in off an in-bound pass by Ramaley

49-33 Blosnick scores again on a jumper from the paint

49-37 Final

 

VIKINGS BOXSCORE-

Boyd: 16 points

Blosnick: 13 points

Enders: 12 points

Ray: 6 points

Ramaley: 2 points

Come watch your Lady Vikings on Thursday, January 15 @ 6:30pm here at Hopewell High School as they host Lincoln Park.

And remember, it’s always a great day to be a Viking!

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Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

Hopewell HS Boys Basketball Knock Off 1st Place Central Valley, 61-57

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 3 minutes read

Hopewell traveled to Central Valley on Friday night for an important 4A Section 2 matchup.

Hopewell entered the game, their 11th of the year, with a 4-6 record, in search of their first section win of the year (0-3). Central Valley entered the game with a 10-1 record, 3-0 in the section and in 1st place.

Hopewell set the tone early with an aggressive approach on both ends of the floor. Nick Adams sparked the offense in transition, while James Armstrong established a presence inside with finishes at the rim and trips to the free-throw line. Brody Rock added energy and pace, helping Hopewell generate quality looks and build a narrow advantage. Central Valley stayed close, but Hopewell carried a slim 17–15 lead into the end of the first quarter.

Hopewell continued to share the ball in the second quarter, finding success from multiple spots on the floor. Adams knocked down a corner three and stayed aggressive attacking the basket, while Jeremy Benninghoff converted on a pair of finishes inside. Rock added a jumper and a three as Hopewell answered each Central Valley push and went into halftime with a narrow 31–29 lead.

The third quarter belonged to Hopewell. Armstrong controlled the paint and the glass, scoring on a series of layups and put backs to swing momentum. Rock and Adams continued to contribute, while Benninghoff added a corner three and another second-chance basket. Hopewell used the surge to open up a commanding advantage and took a 48–32 lead into the fourth.

Central Valley didn’t go away though, making an incredible run early in the quarter, cutting into the deficit and grabbing the lead at 55-54 in front of an intense crowd. Hopewell stayed extremely composed down the stretch. Adams scored an important basket, and Armstrong and Biega knocked down some important free throws in the final minutes to seal the outcome. Hopewell closed out a hard-fought 61–57 victory.

The win immediately becomes one of the biggest wins for the Hopewell boys’ program in recent memory and sets the tone for the 2nd half of the season where the expectations are that this team will continue to bond and grow together.

After the game, we had the opportunity to speak with Coach Biega to get his thoughts on the victory and what it means to the season moving forward.

Next up for the boys is a game on Saturday vs Springdale in the Ambridge Legends Classic and then a return to Section Play next week on Tuesday 1/13 at Ambridge.

1st QUARTER-

2-7 Layup for Tre Cameron off feed from James Armstrong

4-9 Fast-break layup by Nick Adams

6-9 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

8-11 Brody Rock with a fast-break layup

10-13 A nice feed from Rock leads to an Armstrong layup

12-13 Great take to the hoop from Adams

15-13 Corner three from Jeremy Benninghoff

17-13 Zack Sampson with a floater

END OF QUARTER: Hopewell 17 Central Valley 15

2nd QUARTER-

20-15 Adams with a corner three

22-17 Layup off a feed for Benninghoff

24-19 Benninghoff with a spin move layup

26-24 Elbow jumper for Rock

29-27 Rock swishes a three

31-29 Adams with another layup

HALFTIME: Hopewell 31 Central Valley 29

3rd QUARTER-

33-29 Armstrong with a layup

35-29 A put-back for Armstrong

37-32 Rock with a nice layup

39-32 Armstrong with yet another put-back

41-32 Adams makes 2 of 2 free throws

43-32 Armstrong cooking on the boards with a put-back

46-32 Benninghoff with a corner three

48-32 Putback for Benninghoff

END OF QUARTER: Hopewell 48 Central Valley 32

4th QUARTER-

50-36 Armstrong is strong inside with a put-back

52-38 Layup for Justin Shegog off a feed from Armstrong

54-50 Rock makes 2 of 2 free throws

55-55 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

57-55 Adams with a driving layup

58-55 Armstrong makes 1 of 2 free throws

59-57 Jack Biega makes 1 of 2 free throws

60-57 Biega makes 1 of 2 free throws

61-57 Biega makes 1 of 2 free throws

FINAL SCORE: Hopewell 61 Central Valley 57

 

VARSITY POINTS-

Armstrong: 15 points

Adams: 13 points

Benninghoff: 12 points

Rock: 11 points

Biega: 3 points

Cameron: 2 points

Sampson: 2 points

Shegog: 2 points

 

 

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Hopewell Boys HS Basketball

Hopewell Boys JV Basketball Edge Central Valley, 60-59

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 2 minutes read

Prior to the HS varsity game, the Hopewell Junior Varsity team battled against Central Valley as well.

This game was also very entertaining and tight at the end.

In the first quarter, the Vikings offense was on it, sharing the ball and scoring like pros. It was highlighted by Jeremy Benninghoff and Avery Bokor’s high level playmaking.

In the second quarter, the Vikings grabbed a big lead but let the Warriors climb back into the game. Zack Sampson shined in this quarter by finding great shots in the paint.

In the third quarter, the Vikings offense picked up again, scoring 21 points. Benninghoff went off, having six layups alone in the third and a few free throws.

In the fourth and final quarter, free throws were plenty. There were only two made shots that were not free throws, which were both made by Bokor. Jayvion Lindsay found the line with ease, getting three chances for free shots. Hopewell finished the 4th Quarter going 7 for 10 from the line, which put the game away.

1ST QUARTER-

2-0 Jeremy Benninghoff with a layup off a rebound

5-0 Jayvion Lindsay splashes a three

7-4 Benninghoff with another layup

9-6 Aiden Gonzalez with a bank layup

11-8 Avery Bokor with a fast break layup off a steal

14-10 Corner three for Bokor

END OF QUARTER: Hopewell 14 Central Valley 10

2ND QUARTER-

16-10 Bokor with a nice layup

18-10 Another layup for Bokor

20-16 Layup from Lindsay

22-16 Zack Sampson swishes a floater

24-18 Benninghoff layup for two

26-21 Another floater for Sampson

28-24 Sampson with a left-handed layup

HALFTIME- Hopewell 28 Central Valley 24

3RD QUARTER-

30-27 One-handed floater for Bokor

32-37 Benninghoff with a scoop layup

33-27 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

35-31 Another layup for Benninghoff

37-33 Benninghoff with yet another layup

39-35 Benninghoff with his fourth layup of the third quarter

41-37 Benninghoff makes 2 of 2 free throws

43-37 Lindsay makes 2 of 2 free throws

45-37 Bokor with a put-back

47-40 One-handed floater for Benninghoff

49-40 A putback for Benninghoff

END OF QUARTER: Hopewell 49 Central Valley 42

4TH QUARTER-

51-44 Bokor with a nice jump shot

53-44 Lindsay makes 2 of 2 free throws

54-54 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

56-54 A left-side floater for Bokor

57-54 Lindsay makes 1 of 2 free throws

59-56 Bokor makes 2 of 2 free throws

60-56 Gonzalez make 1 of 2 free throws

FINAL SCORE: Hopewell 60 Central Valley 59

 

HOPEWELL JUNIOR VARSITY POINTS

Benninghoff: 20 points

Bokor: 19 points

Lindsay: 12 points

Sampson: 6 points

Gonzalez: 3 points

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Hopewell HS Girls Basketball

Hopewell HS Girls Basketball Falls to Hampton,

by Lillian Otto
written by Lillian Otto 2 minutes read

Last night, the Hopewell High School Girls Basketball Team took on an undefeated 5A team in Hampton. They knew it would be difficult matchup from the start, but they were up for that challenge. They gave it their all, and that’s all we ask from them.

Game Recap:

Hopewell vs Hampton HS Girls Basketball

1ST QUARTER:

Hampton came out aggressive on both ends, but Hopewell got early scores from Hannah McDowell and Avery Boyd. Hopewell had trouble finding a rhythm offensively and was forced to use an early timeout. Despite the slow start, Hopewell stayed within striking distance to keep the score 7-4.

End of 1st Quarter: Hampton 7-4

2ND QUARTER:

Boyd sparked the offense with a smooth corner three, helping Hopewell close the gap. The Vikings continued to battle, but Hampton’s defensive pressure and timely scoring kept them in control. Hopewell went into halftime behind 15-9.

Halftime: Hampton 15-9

Hopewell vs. Hampton HS Girls Basketball


3RD QUARTER:

Hopewell played well coming out of the locker room. Addison Blosnick scored off a rebound and put-back, while McDowell took over offensively with jumpers and trips to the free throw line. Boyd added another three, and Hopewell’s deficit shrunk to only 4 points as they trailed 23-19 at the end of the third.

End of 2nd Quarter: Hampton 23-19

4TH QUARTER:

Boyd pushed the Vikings even farther into Hampton territory by knocking down a three, finishing a floater, and going perfect from the free throw line. But it was not enough, as Hampton pulled away with an outstanding fourth quarter finish.

FINAL SCORE: Hopewell 31, Hampton 42

Game Play-by-Play

1ST QUARTER

0-4 Hopewell Timeout

2-4 Hannah McDowell jump shot from the elbow

4-7 Avery Boyd makes 2 of 3 free throws

4-7 Hampton Timeout

2ND QUARTER

7-11 Boyd swishes a nice corner three

7-15 Hampton Timeout

9-15 Elbow jumper for Allison Ramaley

3RD QUARTER

11-23 Rebound and put-back by Addison Blosnick

13-23 Another jumper for McDowell from the free throw line

14-23 McDowell makes 1 of 2 free throws

16-23 Jump shot for McDowell

19-23 Nice three-pointer for Boyd

4TH QUARTER

22-36 Boyd with a deep three

22-36 Hopewell Timeout

24-38 Deep jumper for McDowell

25-40 Ava Ray makes 1 of 2 free throws

27-40 Floater for Boyd

28-42 Blosnick makes 1 of 2 free throws

31-42 Boyd makes 3 of 3 free throws

 

HOPEWELL SCORING:

Avery Boyd: 14 points

Hannah McDowell: 9 points

Addison Blosnick: 3 points

Allison Ramaley: 2 points

Ava Ray: 1 point

A loss isn’t always a bad thing, especially if it is against a dominant team like Hampton. It is a chance to learn from your mistakes and come back better the next game, which is what they will do.

The Lady Vikings play at Blackhawk on Thursday December 18, and they play Ambridge at the Montour Tournament on Saturday. Come support our girls!

And remember, it’s always a great day to be a Viking!

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