Rothermel's Career-High 25 Leads Hornets Over Athens, 57-44

By: Ed Weaver  /  January 17, 2025  /  Photo: Nick Coyle

Junior Luke Rothermel scored a career-high 25 points to help the Wellsboro Boys Basketball tam defeat Athens, 57-44, on Thursday.

The Hornets have won four out of their last six games to start the new year.

Wellsboro jumped out to an early lead in the opening quarter as they outscored the Wildcats 13-4. Athens rallied in the 2nd quarter, and outscored the Hornets 16-14, to close the lead down to 27-20 at the half. Athens again made up more ground in the 3rd, outscoring Wellsboro 17-13, led by Jase Babcock's 8 points, to pull within 40-37 heading into the 4th quarter. Wellsboro saved their best quarter scoring-wise for last, as they outscored the Wildcats 17-7, behind 9 points from Rothermel, down the stretch to complete the season sweep.

"Luke really took control of the game in the second half," head coach Ron Doughtie said. "He was attacking the rim on his drives and following shots from teammates to get the rebound and put it back in. He really out worked his opponents tonight. It was his most complete game of his career and one we have been waiting to see."

Rothermel led all scorers with 25 points, sophomore Colin Fletcher continued his strong 2nd half of the season with 15 points, and senior Mitchel Lechler added 10. Freshman Griffin Morral pitched in 4 points, junior Marek Mascho chipped in 2 points and sophomore Max Mascho was 1-for-2 at the foul line. Rothermel finished with 10 boards to finish with a double-double, Lechler made 4 assists and 3 steals, Fletcher grabbed 7 rebounds and made 3 steals, and Max Mascho had 10 rebounds and 5 assists.

Babcock finished with 13 points to lead the Wildcats.

Athens won the JV game 37-24. Freshman Ransom Schultz led Wellsboro with 9 points and sophomore Gideon Lawton added 6.

The win improves Wellsboro to 7-6 overall and 6-3 in the NTL Large School Division.

The Hornets travel to Hughesville Monday for a non-league contest.