Basketball Recap: Ethan Rothrock's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Tuscarawas Central Catholic over Tuscarawas Valley

Tuscarawas Central Catholic's game on Friday was all tied up 27-27 at the half, but sadly for them it didn't stay that way. They fell just short of the Tuscarawas Valley Trojans by a score of 48-45. The Saints have struggled against the Trojans recently, as the game was their fifth consecutive lost matchup.

Tuscarawas Central Catholic lost despite a true team effort on offense, the best among them being Ethan Rothrock, who dropped a double-double on ten points and 11 rebounds. Rothrock is on a roll when it comes to boards, as he's now pulled down eight or more in the last four games he's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Jayce McCollins, who posted 13 points.

Tuscarawas Valley's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Cole Kuykendall, who went 6 of 15 on his way to 18 points. What's more, Kuykendall also racked up two blocks, the most he's had since back in January of 2024. Another player making a difference was Izaak Matthews, who had seven points and eight rebounds.

Tuscarawas Central Catholic's defeat dropped their record down to 1-9. As for Tuscarawas Valley, with the victory, they broke their four-game losing streak and moved their record to 2-9.

Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Tuscarawas Central Catholic will challenge Buckeye Trail at 7:30 p.m. on January 17th. As for Tuscarawas Valley, they will face off against Newcomerstown at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.