JOHNSTOWN, Pa. – The Pennsylvania Highlands Community College men's basketball team claimed its first Region 20 championship with a 77-57 victory over the Community College of Allegheny County Sunday inside Pitt-Johnstown's Sports Center.
The win not only redeemed the Black Bears after two regular-season losses to the Wildcats, but also secured their third Western Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference title and first since the 2021-22 season.
"We've had one of the toughest seasons I've had in a long time," coach Chris Weakley said. "Early in the season, we faced numerous Division II teams and four-year schools, which led to a slow start. When we returned from holiday break, we had a meeting, and the guys bought in. They embraced everything I asked of them, and their hard work paid off. This victory was well-earned and truly deserved."
Black Bears freshman BJ Lavender was named the tournament's most valuable player after scoring 28 points in the championship game.
Desmond Handon Jr. and Anthony Ross were each named to the all-tournament team. Lavender and Handon were also awarded all-conference honors.
Weakley was named Western Pennsylvania Collegiate Conference coach of the year in his first season at the helm of the Black Bears.
"We faced a lot of adversity this season, but we just kept our minds straight and focused," Lavender said. "We kept putting the work in every day and stayed consistent, and it showed. We're very thankful for everything Coach Weakley has done for us."
Penn Highlands will now compete in the Mid-Atlantic District Tournament at Sandhills Community College in Pinehurst, North Carolina, March 1-2. The winner will advance to the NJCAA national championships beginning March 12 at Herkimer College in Herkimer, New York.
© 2025 The Tribune-Democrat (Johnstown, Pa.). Visit www.tribune-democrat.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
