Franciscan 78, Geneva 64

Franciscan Starters 
Sawyer Butler, Karl Yonkeu, Zach Oliver, Malachi Rose-Burton, Aiden Townsend

How It Happened 
    There are few things more satisfying than beating the Geneva Golden Tornadoes at home. At one point they were the darling program of the PAC. But, perennial contenders riding the coat tails of the Tipton brothers no longer. What was once a matchup lopsided in Geneva's favor, is now entering the green and gold era. Tonight's weather forecast of Golden Tornadoes in Steubenville, felt more like a warm summer breeze.
    The Barons scored first and that was the closest Geneva came to victory. They led from the beginning and never looked back. They quickly amounted a 13 point lead just minutes into the game, and Geneva looked distraught. Geneva had done what they were supposed to. They kept Butler and Oliver in check, but foolishly underestimated the rest of the Baron offensive attack. Coach Santangelo loves his NBA comparisons, so this is for you; Townsend showcased his mid range like he was Carmelo Anthony circa '03, Trotsko was a force in the post like an Orlando O'Neal, Covetta thought the volleyball line was the three-point line, but like Curry...he didn't care and made them anyway, and Pollaro did a little bit of everything like Magic Johnson. 
    The Barons have seemed to settle on a starting five that can compete with anyone in the league. What is more dangerous are the men that come second are just as frightening to defend. This was showcased by the freshmen, Covetta and Pollaro, coming off the bench and leading the Barons in scoring. 
    After a disappointing loss its good to see the boys jump back on the horse and have a monster of a game. It's a great point to build off with the most important game of the regular season, if you have hopes of hosting a playoff game, coming next Wednesday. Chatham is two games ahead in 1st place, but a win over them gives the Barons a sliver of hope of them falling out of the top two and the Barons into it.
    ...Also, turns out, Sawyer can dunk.

Inside the Numbers 
- Covetta led the Barons in scoring for the third time this season
- 11 Barons put up points
- The Barons shot a staggering 49% from the field

Up Next 
Franciscan remains at home to take on Chatham on Wednesday. Chatham is the top-ranked team in the PAC South. These two teams met in Pittsburgh a few weeks ago with the Cougars winning by just two points. Pinkett and Butler each scored 26 points in the back and forth thriller. The Barons look to take down the Cougars to climb the standings and level the season series. 

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