Upper Darby, PA – A Miracle Shot, a Dominant Win, and a Championship Set
It was, without a doubt, the most thrilling night of the year in the PGBL. Packed stands, community buzz, and one miraculous shot that will be talked about for years—Thursday night delivered on every level. With a championship berth on the line, the drama unfolded in spectacular fashion.
Game Two: Kings 93, Wolfpack 84 — A Shot for the Ages
The spotlight matchup of the night was the second semifinal: Kings vs. Wolfpack. Everyone had been talking about it all week, and it lived up to the hype.
For much of the game, the Kings looked in control. They built a 17-point second-half lead, and it seemed like they might cruise to the final. But the Wolfpack had other plans. Fueled by grit and momentum, they mounted a stunning comeback, eventually taking a 3-point lead with just five minutes remaining.
Then, it happened.
With the game tied and just over a minute left, Fotis Giannopoulos of the Kings was fouled in the paint. Twisting midair from the contact, he flung the ball upward—more desperation than design. The gym fell silent. The ball soared high, nearly brushing the ceiling, and then, in what felt like slow motion, dropped straight through the net.
The crowd erupted. The Kings bench leapt to their feet. Giannopoulos, fired up, completed the three-point play at the line, shifting the lead and the momentum for good. That miracle shot broke the Wolfpack’s resolve. Despite their comeback, the Kings held firm in the final seconds to punch their ticket to the PGBL Championship.
Nick Veronis led all Kings scorers with 30 points, going 10-for-12 from the line. The Wolfpack fought hard and showed immense heart, but their season ends just shy of the final.
Game One: Danny’s Boys 82, Rip City 63 — Still the Team to Beat
In the opening game, Danny’s Boys made a clear statement: they’re still the champs, and they’re not letting go of the crown easily.
Facing Rip City, who were missing two key players, Danny’s Boys wasted no time asserting themselves. Jim Armenakis gave Rip City an early presence on the boards, but it wasn’t enough to contain the reigning champs.
On this night, Tom Poulos was everywhere—making hustle plays, blocking shots, finding teammates, and scoring when it mattered. His energy set the tone. But as always, the offense ran through Pete Kathopoulos, who looked sharp and in control all evening. Kathopoulos was nearly flawless, dropping 38 points and going 12-of-13 from the free-throw line, including multiple three-pointers that seemed to deflate any hopes of a comeback.
With this win, Danny’s Boys head into the championship with a near-perfect season still intact—and a chance to repeat.
Next Week: The Championship
It all comes down to this:
Danny’s Boys vs. Kings
The rematch of last season’s showdown. The reigning champs against this year’s most balanced team. One team chasing legacy, the other chasing redemption.
Tip-off next Thursday night at St. Demetrios. Don’t miss it.