The OLSH Chargers used a fast start and steady defense to secure a 47-35 opening-round victory over the Conemaugh Township Indians in the PIAA Class 2A Boys Basketball Championships Saturday afternoon at home in the Angela Activities Center (AAC).
Tiernan McCullough led the Chargers with a team-high 16 points as OLSH improved to 22-5 on the season.
Frankie Igrec helped ignite the Chargers early, scoring seven points in the first quarter as OLSH jumped out to a 19-8 lead. The Chargers established an aggressive defensive approach in the half court while pushing the tempo offensively, forcing the Indians to work for their opportunities throughout the game.
The Indians settled in during the second quarter and chipped away at the deficit, but OLSH maintained control leading 26-20 at halftime.
The Chargers extended their lead in the third quarter behind Jake Johnson, who scored five of his 11 points in the period. OLSH outscored the Indians 10-6 in the quarter, stretching the lead and putting the game firmly in its grasp heading into the final frame.
Despite facing challenges from the Indians' size and athleticism inside, the Chargers maintained their defensive intensity down the stretch to seal the victory.
With the win, the Chargers advance to the second round of the PIAA playoffs, where they will face District 10 champs, Mercyhurst Prep, on Wednesday at a time and location to be determined.
