proved they can dominate too.
The P-T Warriors led by 14 points at the end of the first quarter and kept the momentum rolling throughout the game. They only allowed two points in the fourth quarter, ending in a 63-23 victory.
Undefeated, the Warriors (19-0, 10-0) claimed another Section 2-5A win, their second triumph this season over the McKeesport Tigers (5-15, 2-9).
“Our freshman year, we got beat by a lot in the state playoffs, so our coaches told us to come out here with a lot of energy, and it felt nice to do that tonight,” said P-T junior Torrie DeStefano, who led the Warriors with 12 points and 10 steals.
McKeesport made it to the PIAA semifinals in 2022 and placed second in Section 3-5A last season. The Tigers graduated Maddy Hertzler (3-point school record), Brooke Evans (assist school record) and Rachael Manfredo (1,000-point club), making this a rebuilding year.
All 16 Penn-Trafford players subbed in the game, and 11 scored.
“Having everyone come off the bench and score and seeing so many people be successful is really encouraging,” said DeStefano. “Knowing that you can count on anyone on the bench to do something is great.”
Point Park commit, senior Kamryn Pieper, scored 11 points for the Warriors.
“I tried being consistent, finishing around the rim, and actually focusing, not taking it for granted to follow through,” Pieper said.
The Warriors will face back-to-back section games, then travel to Upper Saint Clair to end the regular season. Their next game will be away at Kiski Area on Feb. 3.
“[We have to focus on] keeping a positive mindset, positive attitude, keeping everyone up and ready to go, everyone having their mind cleared and having a gameplan,” Pieper said.
Follow The Warrior on Twitter at @ptjournalism
Follow Annabelle on Twitter at @AnnabelleA_PT