THE NEIGHBORHOOD ACADEMY CELEBRATES THE STATE TITLE, MARCH 27, IN HERSHEY, PA. (PHOTOS BY TREFIVE VISUALS)
Edges Sankofa Freedom, 60-51, to win first state title
The Neighborhood Academy, the sixth-smallest school in the WPIAL for boys basketball, a school located in Stanton Heights, has earned a reputation.
A reputation for winning.
Those who were sleeping on The Neighborhood Academy and its high school basketball team woke up to the team winning a state championship on March 27, a 60-51 victory over Sankofa Freedom, in Hershey, Pa. It was the culmination of years of determination and hard work, which turned into a moment that the basketball players at The Neighborhood Academy will never forget.
The Neighborhood Academy plays in WPIAL and PIAA Class 1A. It’s their first-ever PIAA state title.
The Bulldogs were led to the title by players like senior guard Courtney Wallace, who’s headed to Yale University, Syncer Nicholson, Shamar Simpson, Kedron Gilmore and others.
The Head of School at The Neighborhood Academy is Dr. Anthony Williams. Dr. Williams, a former New Pittsburgh Courier “Man of Excellence” from 2019, said in a newsletter to students, family and supporters that “we could not be prouder of our Bulldogs for their hard work, resilience, and sportsmanship. While their success on the court is remarkable, I am even more proud of their commitment in the classroom. The team maintained an impressive 3.6 GPA during the season, with nine out of twelve players earning Honor Roll status. They have truly embodied what it means to be student-athletes, excelling in both academics and athletics. They have represented The Neighborhood Academy with excellence on and off the court, demonstrating the values we hold dear as a school community.”
Dr. Williams congratulated head coach Jordan Marks, the parents, families and fans “who have supported our team every step of the way. Your encouragement, dedication, and belief in our students have been instrumental in this journey.”
He then told supporters that the City of Pittsburgh would award the team with a proclamation on April 29 at 10 a.m. “This victory is more than just a championship—it is a reflection of the strength, unity, and heart of the entire TNA community,” Dr. Williams said. “Let’s take this moment to celebrate together and continue to support our students as they strive for excellence in all they do.”
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