Kehler on Hoops: DALLAS DEFEATS HAZLETON AREA 72-56

Written by: Dell Jackson on February 2, 2022

Ed note: We welcome back David Kehler!

DALLAS DEFEATS HAZLETON AREA 72-56

Remaining unbeaten at home this season and leading for the entire contest, Dallas snapped Hazleton Area’s 12 game win streak 72-56 in a clash between two of the top teams in PIAA District 2. Dallas’ aggressive zone defense forced 20 Hazleton Area turnovers, and the visitors were rarely able to generate much offensive continuity. Dallas blasted Hazleton Area early in the first quarter, and the visitors were never able to recover.

Hazleton Area committed turnovers on their first two possessions, and both errors led to Dallas scores: a three pointer by 5′ 11″ senior Nick Nocito, followed by a fast break layup by Nocito. The Dallas lead quickly expanded to 15-5, with the home team scoring on a drive by 6′ sophomore Michael Cumbo, a drive by 6′ senior Austin Finarelli, a three pointer by Finarelli, and another three pointer by Nocito. Hazleton Area had ball security problems throughout the first frame, committing five turnovers in the quarter, and they were unable to contain Nocito, who scored 12 points in the first period. Although Hazleton Area had a decided height advantage, they were unable to exploit it against Dallas’ quick handed defenders, who were generally aligned in a 1-2-2 or a 2-3 zone. Hazleton Area, at times, tried to shoot over the Dallas zone, but they had trouble finding the range. Hazleton ended the first half with a 9-0 run, capped by a couple of free throws by sophomore Samuell Guzman, but they still trailed by seven points at halftime.

Dallas opened the second half with a 17-4 run, during which Finarelli and 6′ 2″ junior Michael Bufalino were particularly effective. Dallas hit the offensive board hard in the third frame, and they forced seven Hazleton turnovers in that quarter. Hazleton never really threatened in the second half.

Dallas’ starters were all very effective in this game, and their teamwork was exemplary. Cumbo finished with 23 points, Finarelli added 18, Nocito had 14, Bufalino netted eight points, and 6′ 1″ senior Jackson Wydra scored six points. Cumbo had four three pointers, and Finarelli and Nocito each had two.

Dallas out rebounded the taller Hazleton Area team 31 to 28. Hazleton had 20 turnovers to 17 by Dallas. Both teams shot well from the line: Hazleton was 18 of 22, while Dallas was 11 of 14.

This website has Hazleton Area ranked #3 in PIAA District 2 this season and Dallas ranked #4 in the district. Hazleton is a Class 6A team, and Dallas is in Class 4A. Barring something really unusual, Dallas should qualify for the PIAA state championship tournament. Dallas is now 13-3, while Hazleton Area falls to 15-3

Hazleton Area 13 18 13 12-56
Dallas 24 14 20 14-72

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