Bobcats Battle Through PA Highlands Classic Against Salem & Sandhills

JOHNSTOWN, PA — Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) wrapped up a challenging two-game stretch at the PA Highlands Classic this past weekend, facing two strong Region 19 programs in Salem Community College and Sandhills Community College. Despite competitive stretches and standout individual performances, the Bobcats dropped both matchups, falling 88–55 to Salem on Saturday and 115–58 to Sandhills on Sunday.

SATURDAY: Salem 88, Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) 55

The Bobcats opened the weekend against a red-hot Salem squad that shot nearly 50% from the field and knocked down 10 three-pointers. Bryant & Stratton stayed within reach early thanks to the backcourt pairing of Donovan Barnes and Remi Gilmore, but a late first-half run allowed Salem to push its lead to 46–26 at the break.

Despite continued effort in the second half — including strong rebounding from Blake Brookenthal and defensive activity from Aaron Wilson — Salem's efficiency and 52–35 rebounding advantage proved decisive.

Top Performers vs. Salem

• Donovan Barnes — 14 points, 5 rebounds

• Remi Gilmore — 9 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists

• Blake Brookenthal — 8 points, 7 rebounds

• Aaron Wilson — 7 points, 4 rebounds, 2 steals

SUNDAY: Sandhills 115, Bryant & Stratton (Ohio) 58

On Sunday, Bryant & Stratton closed the weekend against nationally regarded Sandhills, who used pace, depth, and aggressive rebounding to control the contest. Barnes and Wilson combined for 23 first-half points to keep the Bobcats within striking distance, trailing 49–34 at the half.

Sandhills pulled away in the second half, but the Bobcats received solid production from Curtis Granger, Jack Smith, and the frontcourt trio of Brookenthal, Lewis, and Graham on the glass.

Top Performers vs. Sandhills

• Donovan Barnes — 15 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists

• Aaron Wilson — 8 points, 6 assists, 2 steals

• Jack Smith — 7 points

• Curtis Granger — 7 points (3-for-3 FG)

• Blake Brookenthal — 6 points, 6 rebounds

• Hunter Graham — 6 rebounds

Weekend Overview

Across the two-game slate, Barnes led the Bobcats in scoring, averaging 14.5 points while adding 5.5 rebounds per game. Wilson contributed steady playmaking with 4 assists per game, and Brookenthal anchored the paint with a team-best 13 rebounds over the weekend.

The Bobcats showed flashes of improved ball movement, bench scoring, and first-half execution — all positive signs as they continue navigating a demanding early-season schedule.

Next Event

Wed. 19 — vs Lorain County Community College
8:00 PM EST
Hosted at Ursuline College (Sister Diana Stano Athletic Center)

-Ray Yates