Bears knock off first-place Centurions, 58-49

By JEREMY TEPPER

MVI Sports

In many ways, the deck seemed stacked against Clairton on Friday.

The Bears had lost two in a row, including a 45-point loss to Leechburg three days ago. Plus, Kanye Hawkins, Clairton’s starting center, was injured and not available against Greensburg Central Catholic, the top team in its section.

But none of that mattered. 

Clairton was tougher on the court, playing with relentless energy and pestering defense to beat Greensburg Central Catholic, 58-49.

“We know if we just come out with effort, our defense is fine. We have a lot of long, athletic guys, strong kids,” said Clairton coach Matt Geletko. “If we just play the right way, we’re in good shape, and that’s what we reiterated to the guys the last couple days.”

Earlier in the season, Clairton took the Centurions down to the wire, losing 66-65. It served as a confidence booster, but also as motivation, said senior guard Kenlein Ogletree. This time around, they talked about finishing the deal.

Athletes like Ogletree, Brendan Parsons and Don Napper stepped up, whether it was jumping a passing lane or denying a shot at the rim.

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