Small runs from Mont Alto led to New Ken’s downfall

MONT ALTO, Pa. – After allowing Mont Alto to connect on 10 more field goals than itself during Tuesday's men's basketball game, New Kensington couldn't make up for the lead Mont Alto had gained so early into the contest. New Kensington fell behind 91-66, as Mont Alto was able to capture a home victory.

New Kensington will face a record drop of 3-13 in the conference and 4-18 overall, while Mont Alto gets to improve to 15-2 (conference) and 19-4 (overall).  

Throughout the first half, Mont Alto found itself going on small runs to gain control of the game. Although the contest was knotted on three occasions within the early stages of the frame, Beaver was able to break away and outscore New Kensington. Jahi Ogbonna (Pittsburgh, Pa./ Allderdice) was New Kensington's leading man with 15 points, posting more than any individual from Mont Alto, but collectively Mont Alto managed to outdo the visitor.

Mont Alto converted 18 of 32 field goals, while New Kensington attempted 13 of 34. Sinking five from behind the arc versus New Kensington's one, Mont Alto earned an advantage for the first half, putting them up 46-30 heading into halftime.

Mont Alto continued to stay in front for the duration of the second half, once again going on short lived runs that were enough to keep it well ahead of New Kensington. New Kensington's efforts were six points better than the previous half, but still shy of the edge Mont Alto had obtained. John Teague contributed 11 points for Mont Alto, landing 5 of 6 field goals, along with a free throw.

New Kensington went above Mont Alto's three-point attempts, putting in six, while its opponent had two. But, Mont Alto's field goal attempts were five more than New Kensington's efforts, allowing it to win the half and ultimately the contest.

Ogbonna led New Kensington in several categories, including sinking 23 points, taking six rebounds, and having three assists. Jamison Nee (Natrona Heights, Pa./ Highlands) put up 13 points, and Hasaan Ismaeli (Pittsburgh, Pa./ Nazareth Prep) had the most steals, three.

Teague put up 17 points and led Mont Alto with 12 rebounds. Marcus Roper followed with 15 points, and Quintyn Flemister tracked down eight rebounds and had six assists.  

New Kensington will return to action on Saturday when it travels to Penn State Dubois for a contest at 3 p.m. Mont Alto will host Penn State Wilkes-Barre on Saturday at 3 p.m.

Written by Janet Surma