by Wadsworth, OH: The Nordonia Knights’ (9-16) magical run to their first-ever regional appearance ended Tuesday night at the hands of the Hoban Knights, 80-42. Hoban got contributions across the board, as 11 different players scored a basket, led by an 18-point performance from senior Niera Stevens. For Nordonia, Haydn Paul led the way with 18.
Hoban wasted no time in turning up the pressure on Nordonia, coming out in a full-court press that gave Nordonia headaches. Offensively, everything was clicking for Hoban. Right before the first quarter buzzer, Stevens put up a prayer from halfcourt that found the bottom of the net, giving her 12 in the quarter and Hoban a 34-12 lead after one.
The scoring slowed down a bit in the second, but the defensive pressure for Hoban did not let up, forcing multiple turnovers and bad passes. Hoban dug into its bench in the second quarter, giving more players meaningful minutes that might prove beneficial down the stretch. Heading into the break, Hoban held a 51-24 lead.
Midway through the third quarter, the running clock came into effect, draining what little time Nordonia had to mount a comeback. After her impressive first quarter, Stevens was held somewhat in check, but her teammates kept hitting and after three the Hoban Knights led 75-34.
The entire fourth quarter lasted nine nine minutes, as the clock did not stop once in the quarter. Sophomore Mallory Hodge hit a big three-pointer that got the Hoban crowd excited to highlight the action. When the final horn sounded, Hoban walked away with an 80-42 victory over Nordonia.
Keys to the Game
Hoban had their way both offensively and defensively in this one, with 11 different players registering points and three players (Stevens, MaKenzie Grant, and Amariya Davis) finishing with double digits. Their unrelenting defensive pressure kept Nordonia from ever getting really close, including multiple traps that led to errant passes that the Knights then turned into points. Hoban proved they have real depth in this one, something that should be a benefit as they make their run towards a Division II State Championship.
Up Next
With the victory, Hoban advances to Thursday night’s Regional Championship where they will square off with the winner of Massillon Washington and Twinsburg with a trip to state on the line.
Top Performers
Nordonia Knights
Haydn Paul: 18 points
Taylor Morgan: 13 points
Archbishop Hoban Knights
Niera Stevens: 18 points
MaKenzie Grant: 13 points
Amariya Davis: 10 points
| 1st | 2nd | 3rd | 4th | FINAL | |
| Nordonia | 12 | 12 | 10 | 8 | 42 |
| Hoban | 34 | 17 | 24 | 5 | 80 |
