Bradford Era — Andy Close

No one gave Smethport much of a chance facing the exceptionally talented and athletic Clairton Bears in the PIAA Class A second round Tuesday. They didn’t care.

Bryon Clifford’s potential game-winning three as time expired clanged off the front of the rim and the Hubbers escaped with the biggest win in the program’s history, 37-35, striking a big blow for District 9 in the process.

“We love to be the underdogs, that’s what gets us fired up “said Smethport senior Zach Smith. “That shot looked good and when it fell off, I was the happiest I’ve been since we won districts last season.

Clairton, which features three Division I football recruits (Tyler Boyd, Terish Webb, Titus Howard) , who are all going to Pitt, were bested by Smith, Clay Schuler and company, proving that District 9 can play with the best.

“Like I was just telling the guys, nobody thought we could make it this far, plain and simple,” said coach Dan Zeigler. “Nobody except the 15 guys in the locker room and the fans of Smethport.”