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BY C.Y. PETERS

Senior Leadership Shines in Stoney Creek Showdown

When the clock ticks down and the game hangs in the balance, senior leadership becomes invaluable. That was the story Tuesday night at Snavely Gym on Stoney Creek, where Unaka’s seniors rose to the occasion, leading the Rangers to a 60-40 victory over Twin Springs.

Wilson’s Poise Seals the Win
Senior Mason Wilson proved to be the steady hand Unaka needed. In the final minutes, Wilson was unshakable at the free-throw line, sinking all four of his attempts. His composure was matched by his speed and agility as he left the Titans scrambling, often falling behind or tripping over themselves as he maneuvered past them with ease.

Crabtree Catches Fire
Rylan Crabtree took over the fourth quarter, scoring 11 of his game-high 21 points, including two critical three-pointers that effectively secured the win. Crabtree’s sharpshooting electrified the crowd and demoralized the Titans as the Rangers pulled away.

Good Keeps Titans Guessing
T.J. Good added to the highlight reel with dazzling drives to the hoop, faking left and right before finishing with ease. Good’s six points in the final minutes contributed to his 15-point total on the night.

Big John Hardin’s Impact
John Hardin set the tone early, swatting the Titans’ first shot attempt and finishing with five blocks for the game. Hardin also contributed nine points and dominated the boards, pulling down key rebounds to stymie Twin Springs’ second-chance opportunities.

Lambert and Walsh Spark the Offense
Austin Lambert overcame early foul trouble to provide a critical spark in the second quarter, hitting a three-pointer and a two-pointer to extend Unaka’s lead to 24-15. Meanwhile, Aiden Walsh orchestrated the offense with precision, weaving through the defense to set up key plays.

Rangers Hold Strong Despite Foul Trouble
The Rangers held a slim 13-9 lead after the first quarter and expanded it to 27-19 by halftime. However, foul trouble plagued Unaka throughout the game, with four of their top five players sitting on multiple fouls. Despite this, the Rangers relied on their depth and determination to maintain control.

Shooting Efficiency Key in the Fourth Quarter
Both teams struggled at the free-throw line early, with Unaka shooting just 1-for-12 at one point. However, a blistering 70% shooting from the floor in the final quarter, along with a 6-for-8 performance from the line, helped the Rangers pull away. Twin Springs managed just 9-of-24 from the charity stripe, which proved costly.

Coach Dugger’s Take
“We fouled too much—it’s the first night we’ve really been in foul trouble,” Coach Dugger said post-game. “It was good to get a win and have some kids step up when we needed them. That’s going to happen sometimes.”

Titans’ Standout
Clay Ross led Twin Springs with 16 points but couldn’t keep pace with the Rangers’ balanced attack.

Unaka’s defensive intensity and late-game heroics turned a close contest into a decisive victory, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting season on Stoney Creek.