The final showdown of the summer league basketball playoffs unfolded at Borza's Recreation Center, where Lowville Academy edged New Hartford 53‑42 to claim the boys varsity championship. From the opening tip‑off the Academy dictated the pace, building a lead that they never relinquished.
The victory capped a three‑day tournament that featured 29 teams competing across multiple venues. Lowville Academy had advanced to the championship by defeating Holland Patent in the semifinals, a feat that underscored their consistency throughout the series.
In the other semifinal, New Hartford overcame Central Valley Academy, setting the stage for a rematch that would test both squads' defensive adjustments. The playoff schedule began on Wednesday with games spread across two initial sites, then shifted to Westmoreland and Herkimer on Thursday for the remaining matchups.
Girls and Junior Varsity Highlights
The same weekend also saw Central Valley Academy capture the girls championship at the identical venue, adding another layer of local triumph. Earlier in the week, Proctor secured the junior varsity boys final, further illustrating the depth of talent across the participating schools.
Beyond the scoreboard, the tournament served as a showcase for community engagement, drawing families, local sponsors, and youth teams eager to emulate the high‑level play they witnessed. The event’s organizers highlighted the growing popularity of summer league basketball as a conduit for skill development and regional pride.