UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown, Parkland High School’s boys basketball team claimed a 54-49 victory over Allentown Central Catholic on January 6, 2024, at Rockne Hall. This win not only breaks a three-game losing streak for Parkland but also boosts their confidence as they head toward the February playoffs.
The game was a rollercoaster, with Parkland initially trailing before a decisive second quarter shift. Senior Tyler Beck led the charge, scoring a career-high 19 points, including a pivotal 3-pointer that extended their lead to 37-25. Beck stated, “I felt really good today… Anyone can score on our team,” highlighting the team’s depth and unity.
Parkland’s performance in the third quarter was instrumental, outscoring Central Catholic and forcing them to play catch-up. After falling behind 16-9 in the first quarter, Parkland turned the game around, thanks to contributions from seniors Jude Ruisch and Ryan Kearney. Ruisch added 16 points, showcasing his shooting skills with four 3-pointers.
Central Catholic, now 8-4 overall and 3-1 in the EPC, initially took the lead but struggled with their shooting in the second half, going 4-for-15 in the decisive third quarter. Coach Dennis Csensits remarked, “They came out and hit a couple of big shots, and it snowballed on us.” Despite the setback, Central Catholic remains poised for a strong season as they adapt to a new roster after graduating key players.
The victory was crucial for Parkland, especially with injuries sidelining two starters. Coach Eddie Ohlson noted the importance of building chemistry among players stepping into bigger roles. “This will help us with our depth,” he said, referencing the anticipated returns of injured players TJ Lawrence and Javien Porter.
As the teams move through January, fans can expect both Parkland and Central Catholic to continue refining their strategies ahead of the playoffs. With the momentum from this game, Parkland is poised for a strong finish to the season, aiming to reclaim their position among the top contenders in the EPC.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story as both teams prepare for their next challenges.
