Basketball Recap: Strongsville Takes Loss Despite Strong Performances from Matthew Heffke and Brandon Byers

While it was all tied up 31-31 at halftime, Strongsville was not quite Cleveland Heights's equal in the second half on Friday. They came up short against the Tigers, falling 74-49. The Mustangs just can't catch a break and have now endured four defeats in a row dating back to last season.

Brandon Byers

Steals

12/05/25 @ Cleveland Heights	2
12/02/25 vs Nordonia	5
11/30/25 vs Olentangy	3

Despite the loss, Strongsville had strong showings from Brandon Byers, who posted 11 points and six rebounds, and Matthew Heffke, who earned 13 points along with five boards and three blocks. Byers is also crushing it when it comes to steals: he's grabbed at least two every time he's taken the court this season. Another player making a difference was Shane McIntyre, who had five points.

Cleveland Heights got their win on the backs of several key players, but it was Messiah Williams out in front who shot 88% from the field to rack up 17 points and eight boards. The dominant performance also gave Williams a new career-high in assists (three). Jamell Stephens was another key player, going 5-for-12 en route to 13 points in addition to eight rebounds and three steals.

Strongsville's defeat dropped their record down to 0-3. As for Cleveland Heights, they now have a winning record of 2-1.

Strongsville wasted no time getting back out on the court and has already played their next game, an 80-59 victory against Maple Heights on the 6th. As for Cleveland Heights, they also didn't take long to hit the court again: they've already played their next matchup, a 66-58 win against Glenville on the 7th.