08-03-2025
Mercer boys take control to advance in State Tournament
MERCER, Pa. (WKBN) – Mercer boys basketball handled Ellwood City with a decisive 65-50 victory in the First Round of the Class 3A PIAA State Tournament.
Watch above for extended highlights and interviews with Mercer's head coach and star player.
'It's a coach's best friend. We've got three or four weeks through these playoff runs of extra basketball, some of our opponents for next year don't have,' said Mercer head coach Joseph Venasco. 'We have a young team, so it's very valuable for us.'
Mercer's Jayden Amos scored a team-high 13 points in the win. Also, Rider Chiappini, Ben Godfrey, and Bubba Palmer all scored 11 points each in the victory.
The Mustang's Cole Fisher scored 10 points with two crucial 3-point shots in the fourth quarter to down Ellwood City.
'It's electric and came in not knowing what to expect, great atmosphere to play in and we got the job done,' said Fisher. 'I think the past two years helped out, played with great squads and we just got great chemistry. Everyone loves each other and we play for each other.'
Ellwood City's Chris Smiley scored a game-high 15 points in the loss.
Mercer will face Aliquippa in the Second Round of the PIAA State Tournament on Wednesday, March 12.
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