Less than a mile separates Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria High Schools, but when these two communities come together for Sideline Cancer, the impact reaches far beyond the court.
The 4th Annual Girls Sideline Cancer Game tipped off an unforgettable stretch of basketball where rivalry met purpose. Bishop Carroll entered the matchup undefeated at 6-0, fueled by a strong start to the season and a roster firing on all cylinders. Led by Emily Lucko’s consistent double-double performances and supported by steady guard play and sharp shooting from Ava Pablic, Madison DeLauter, Raigan M., and Sarah Miller, the Lady Huskies showcased how complete this team has become.
Central Cambria came in with a 3-2 record, carrying momentum from a magical 2024-25 season that saw them reach the PIAA Quarterfinals in 3A. With strong guard leadership from Alaina Long, lights-out shooting from Katie George, and a tough interior presence from Gianna Grimaldi, the Lady Red Devils proved once again why this rivalry is as competitive as it is passionate.
In front of a loud, electric crowd at Bishop Carroll, the girls delivered a hard-fought battle worthy of the Sideline Cancer stage. Bishop Carroll emerged with a 47-43 victory, reclaiming momentum in the I Can Cup series. Emily Lucko led all scorers with 19 points, while Ava Pablic added 15, as the home crowd celebrated not just a win—but a night dedicated to something bigger than basketball.
The following evening, the spotlight shifted to the boys for the 5th Annual Sideline Cancer Game, as Central Cambria hosted Bishop Carroll in another chapter of this intense crosstown rivalry. Once again, the gym was packed, the energy was high, and the mission was clear. This game honored Central Cambria Class of 2021 graduate Sara Miller, who is bravely battling cancer while also navigating the challenges of insurance coverage. The donation reveal at the end of the third quarter underscored why Sideline Cancer exists—to rally communities around those who need it most.
Central Cambria entered the contest at 3-2, led by standout guard B. Swope, a familiar name in Sideline Cancer games who has delivered big moments year after year. Bishop Carroll countered with a team riding a two-game winning streak, anchored by Jace Casses, who had already made a name for himself as one of the area’s most dynamic scorers.
What followed was a performance for the history books.
Trailing by 13 points in the first half, Bishop Carroll stormed back behind an unbelievable effort from Jace Casses, who poured in a Sideline Cancer record 47 points—even while facing double teams for much of the night. His scoring outburst propelled Bishop Carroll to a 74-65 victory, snapping a two-game losing streak against their rivals and giving BC a 3-2 lead in the I Can Cup series.
Jace’s 47 points broke the previous Sideline Cancer scoring record of 36, set last season by Somerset’s Eve Housley against Penn Cambria. In a twist that feels almost too perfect for a Sideline Cancer story, Eve and Jace are boyfriend and girlfriend—adding yet another layer of connection to a night filled with special moments.
While the wins, records, and rivalries made headlines, the true victory belonged to the communities of Bishop Carroll and Central Cambria. Two nights. Four teams. Packed gyms. And one shared purpose—to support those battling cancer and remind them they are not alone.
That is the heart of Sideline Cancer.
If you are a school, coach, or community member interested in hosting a Sideline Cancer event and making a real impact through the power of sports, we would love to hear from you. Please contact Jordan at [email protected] to learn how you can get involved.
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