By Ron Poniewasz Jr.
New Castle News

The New Castle High boys basketball team closed the calendar year with
another win Tuesday night.

Four players scored in double figures as the Red Hurricane rolled past Seneca Valley in the championship of the New Castle Holiday Tournament, 87-59.

"I was happy with the way our team played," New Castle coach Ralph Blundo said. "Seneca Valley is a formidable opponent. I thought we played well.

"I was really pleased with our energy and effort."

Marquel Hooker paced the 'Canes (11-0) with 19 points on 7-of-15 shooting. He handed out five assists as well.

"I thought he played another great overall game for us," Blundo said of Hooker's effort.

Marquel's younger brother Marcus Hooker chipped in with 11 markers and a game-best 10 rebounds. Marcus contributed five steals and three assists as well.

Brandon Parchman and Geno Stone tossed in 10 tallies apiece for the winners.

New Castle outrebounded the Raiders, 37-14.

"We rebounded the basketball well," Blundo said. "That was a big key in the game. We had a bunch of second opportunities and we turned them over, too."

Jack Cook led Seneca Valley (4-5) with 13 points.

"I think the Christmas break has been a good time for us to get better," Blundo said. "We've been working on things in practice. This is always a big time for us to get better.

"I think we're progressing and we're getting better. That's where my peace comes. I'm pleased that we're getting better each day, with each practice and each game."

New Castle (4-0 league) returns to action at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday when it travels to Ambridge (2-1 section, 5-3 overall) for a WPIAL Section 2-AAA affair.

"We'll have five good practices before we play Ambridge," Blundo said. "We'll work on us the next couple of days. Then we'll prepare for Ambridge on the road."