ALTOONA — For three quarters, everything was going according to plan for the Neshannock High girls basketball team.

When the lights shined brightest, Neshannock High’s Neleh Nogay was there to answer the call. 

WEXFORD — The WPIAL championship hangover is a real thing.

Lawrence County basketball fans in attendance Saturday afternoon turned the Petersen Events Center red — first for the Neshannock High girls and then for the New Castle High boys. 

PITTSBURGH — Neleh Nogay is a freshman, but played anything like one Saturday.

Saturday’s WPIAL Class 4A championship was New Castle’s sixth under head coach Ralph Blundo in his nine years. It may have been the most unique, too.

PITTSBURGH — The Neshannock High girls basketball team made history Saturday.

As the Neshannock High girls basketball team’s lone seniors, Bella Burrelli and Brie Dean bring essential elements to the team.

The two combined for 21 points Saturday to help the Lady Lancers capture their first WPIAL Class 3A championship with a 47-42 win over Shady Side Academy at the University of Pittsburgh’s Petersen Events Center.

However, their impact is felt much more than just in the scoring column.

“These are two great seniors,” Neshannock coach Luann Grybowski said. “They lead by example and work hard every day. It’s a really special year for them.”