Olean Times Herald — Jim Melaro

The final basketball notebook of the 2012-13 season was going to start by acknowledging the teams that made lengthy runs into the postseason.

But something happened at Clarion University’s Tippin Gymnasium on Friday night that deserves top billing.

As noted in the story following Smethport’s season-ending 54-43 loss to Johnsonburg in a PIAA Class A quarterfinal game, Hubber senior Zach Smith tossed in 15 points and became the school’s all-time leading scorer.

The record-breaking points came on a three-point basket with about 5:20 to play in the third quarter.

Three minutes later, the game officials called for a media timeout.

During the break, Chris Rossetti, Clarion University’s sports information director, grabbed the microphone and announced Smith’s accomplishment.

Here’s where it gets good.

The entire crowd, estimated at over 4,000 — representing both Smethport and Johnsonburg, stood and gave Smith an ovation that lasted the entire timeout.

It’s nice to see fans appreciate such a milestone, certainly one that Smith will cherish as he heads off to compete at the University of Pittsburgh at Bradford next year. Read more »