PSNK edge out Fayette in tight contest

Penn State New Kensington Edges Out Penn State Fayette in a Tight Contest

Penn State New Kensington delivered a well-rounded performance to secure an 88-80 victory over Penn State Fayette. Led by a 24-point outing from Ta'Rasi Means and a strong supporting cast, New Kensington displayed resilience and efficiency to clinch the win.

First Half: A Close Contest

Both teams came out strong, trading baskets early in the game. Fayette's Dasilas Jones led his team with 23 points, attacking the defense and keeping the visitors in the fight. However, New Kensington countered with Aubrey Feaster II's inside scoring and Andre Hayes' perimeter shooting. At halftime, the score remained close, with both teams executing well offensively.

Second Half: New Kensington Pulls Away

New Kensington found its groove in the second half, shooting an efficient 50.7% from the field and 30% from beyond the arc. Means took over offensively, knocking down key shots while also contributing four assists. Hayes added 15 points, keeping the offense fluid with his playmaking.

The rebounding battle proved crucial, as New Kensington outrebounded Fayette 41-26. Donaven Johnson (8 rebounds) and Mekhi Murray (7 rebounds) provided key second-chance opportunities, limiting Fayette's possessions. Fayette remained competitive with clutch scoring from Jesse Lawson Jr. (18 points) and Brandon Dennison (17 points), but New Kensington's superior ball movement and defense proved the difference.

Key Takeaways

• Efficient Shooting: New Kensington shot 50.7% from the field.
• Balanced Team Play: 21 assists, led by Johnson (5) and Hayes (5).
• Rebounding Dominance: New Kensington controlled the boards with 41 total rebounds.
• Defensive Stops: The team recorded six steals and limited Fayette's perimeter shooting to 21.7%.

Penn State New Kensington Team Stats

• Field Goals: 34-67 (50.7%)
• Three-Point FG: 6-20 (30.0%)
• Free Throws: 14-20 (70.0%)
• Total Rebounds: 41
• Assists: 21
• Steals: 6
• Blocks: 1
• Turnovers: 13
• Personal Fouls: 18
• Final Score: Penn State New Kensington 88 - Penn State Fayette 80