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In 1978, the Belle Vernon Area boys basketball team had a winning season, which resulted in securing the WPIAL Triple A crown.

BVA Coaching and Administration celebrate BVA Basketball

The Cagers went 21-4 during regular season play, and 5-1 in the playoffs. The first place Section 3 Leps established 14 school records that year under Head Coach Don Asmonga and assistants George Estok and Ed Miller.

The 1978 season still leaves us with many memories. There were celebrations of Tom Parks, who set individual records for: a single season point total of 568 points, a single game high of 45 points, and a BVA career scoring mark of 1,193 points. Who can ever forget John Russell’s last-second shot against Wilkinsburg? How can we forget Bill Contz’s and Gregg Grimm’s work under the boards, or the way Randy Giannini commanded the court as floor general?

The Leps’ success was a team effort that captured some of the most exciting moments in the history of BVA sports. The team had the best sixth man in the league with Doug Indof, Mark McManus, Joe Tordy, and Dan Wassilchalk. In addition, the Leps were rounded out by Marvin “Guy” Bizzelle, Mike Breza, Walt Diethorn, Dave Hoffman, and Richard Zuraw – all who contributed when they were needed.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of the 1978 Belle Vernon Area boys basketball team. We commemorate the team and those involved with that memorable season.

(In the photo) Kneeling: Mark McManus; Dan Wassilchalk; Don Asmonga representing deceased Coach Asmonga; Rich Zuraw; Steve Russell, BVA Assistant High School Principal; Doug Indof.
Standing: Marcy Estok representing Assistant Coach George Estok; Assistant Coach Ed Miller; Randy Giannini; Joe Tordy; Greg Grimm; Tom Trilli, scorekeeper; Jack Backo, clock operator; Johnny Russell; and BVA Athletic Director Matt Humbert.

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