UPDATE: In a nail-biting finish at Rockne Hall, Parkland High School secured a thrilling 54-49 victory against Allentown Central Catholic on January 13, 2024. This urgent matchup not only boosts Parkland’s confidence heading into the playoffs but also showcases both teams’ potential in the Eastern Pennsylvania Conference.
Initially struggling, Parkland’s leading scorer, Blake Nassry, went scoreless in the first half, shooting 0-for-7. However, the Trojans rallied with a powerhouse second quarter, led by seniors Tyler Beck, Jude Ruisch, and Ryan Kearney, who collectively scored all 18 points that quarter, turning a 16-9 deficit into a 27-25 lead at halftime.
Nassry ignited Parkland’s offense in the third quarter, contributing seven points, while Beck exploded for a career-high 19 points overall. His pivotal three-pointer extended Parkland’s lead to 37-25 with just over five minutes left in the quarter. “I felt really good today,” said Beck. “My guys had my back and had confidence in me. Anyone can score on our team.”
Central Catholic, now 8-4 overall, briefly led in the first quarter but struggled to maintain momentum. Coach Dennis Csensits remarked on the Trojans’ shooting prowess, noting, “They shoot the ball very well,” as Parkland hit 10 three-pointers throughout the game, compared to Central’s six.
Despite a late-game rally from Central Catholic, sparked by a half-court trap, Parkland held firm. With less than three minutes remaining, Ruisch and Nassry capitalized at the free-throw line, securing the win and snapping a three-game losing streak for Parkland. Coach Eddie Ohlson expressed pride in his team’s resilience, emphasizing the importance of trust and chemistry as they adapt to injuries.
Parkland’s victory is a significant boost as they prepare for the upcoming playoff season, with Ohlson stating, “This will help us with our depth.” As both teams look ahead, the competition remains fierce in the EPC, promising more exciting matchups in the weeks to come.
Fans and players alike are buzzing about this hard-fought victory, making it clear that Parkland is a team to watch as they continue their journey through January and into February’s playoffs.
