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A packed gym at Towanda Area High School played host to a District IV Class AAA quarterfinal doubleheader on Thursday night, February 19, as both Towanda squads battled for a shot at the semifinals. Despite spirited efforts and late surges in each contest, the Black Knights and Lady Black Knights saw their seasons come to an end against two strong opponents.

Tornadoes Surge Early, Hold Off Lady Knights Rally

In the opening game, the Lady Black Knights faced a fierce test against the Mount Carmel Tornadoes, who wasted no time asserting control.

Mount Carmel’s relentless defense and fast-paced offense wreaked havoc early, stifling Towanda’s scoring opportunities and building a commanding halftime lead. The Lady Knights were held to just seven points in the first half as the Tornadoes surged ahead 29–7.

Towanda showed renewed life in the third quarter, sparked by a determined offensive push. Mary Kate Eberlin drove the lane before dishing inside to Mya Maynard, who converted a turnaround jumper to ignite the comeback attempt.

Moments later, Maris Cobb intercepted a Tornadoes pass and pushed the ball ahead to Taylor Aquilio, who found Reese Sullivan open. Sullivan finished through contact for an and-one play, briefly energizing the home crowd.

Despite the rally, Mount Carmel’s early dominance proved too much to overcome. The Tornadoes regained control down the stretch and secured a 42–29 victory to advance to the semifinals.

Though the season ended in defeat, the Lady Black Knights closed the year with a strong campaign and plenty to celebrate.

Loyalsock Pulls Away Late Despite Towanda Fight

The nightcap featured the Towanda boys team taking on the Loyalsock Lancers, who came out firing from the opening tip.

Loyalsock struck first as Brecken Gusick set up Saoj Jones, who created space and drained an early three-pointer. Towanda responded with a steady jumper from Markell Garner at the foul line, but the Lancers continued to control the pace.

Ryan Lingg’s defensive instincts helped fuel Loyalsock’s momentum. After intercepting a pass, he fed Ronald Emery for a deep three, helping the Lancers take a 10–5 lead after the first quarter.

In the second quarter, Lingg again disrupted Towanda’s offense, converting a steal into a breakaway layup. The Black Knights briefly answered with a full-court press that forced turnovers, including a key takeaway by Lucas Vincent.

Darrius Farrell later connected from beyond the arc to keep Towanda within reach, but Loyalsock maintained its edge. Brayden Cioffi knocked down a contested shot before halftime, sending the Lancers into the break with a 34–17 lead.

Towanda mounted a strong second-half push. Boom Thompson opened the third quarter with a steal, while Garner made a savvy post move before kicking the ball out to Farrell for another perimeter score.

Thompson added a clutch corner three in the fourth quarter to bring Towanda closer, but Loyalsock’s composure never wavered. Jalil Coates delivered a no-look pass to Cioffi for a critical three-pointer that helped seal the outcome.

The Lancers ultimately prevailed 63–54, punching their ticket to the semifinals.

Seasons End with Pride

While both Towanda teams fell short of advancing, their determination and resilience were evident throughout the night. Each squad delivered memorable moments and strong seasons that earned the support of their home crowd.

Thursday’s doubleheader highlights were brought to you by Blaise Alexander Family Dealerships.