St. John Vianney's Dominance Continues Against Manasquan
In a striking victory, the No. 2 ranked St. John Vianney girls basketball team trampled No. 8 Manasquan 71-45 on January 13, 2026, marking Miss Manasquan's first defeat of the season after an unblemished start of 11 wins. The Lancers showcased their prowess from the very beginning, jumping out to an 8-0 lead in the opening minutes of the game, setting the tone for their commanding performance.
Key Players Stepping Up
Leading the charge for St. John Vianney was Taylor Sofilkanich, who provided a game-high 14 points, complemented by vital contributions from her teammates, including Gianna Sano and Antonia Jackson, who scored 12 and 11 points respectively. The depth of the Lancers' roster was on full display, with a total of nine players getting into the scoring column. On the other side, Shannon Looney led Manasquan with 11 points, supported by Jordyn Hollawell's seven points and Calista Vowteras's six.
A Game Defined by Defense
Defense was the cornerstone of St. John Vianney's strategy, as emphasized by players like Sofilkanich, who stressed the importance of hard pressing and strategically bumping opponents. Coach Dawn Karpell's methodologies plan to outsmart traditionally strong Manasquan proved effective, limiting their scoring opportunities and consistently controlling the pace of the game.
The Future is Bright for St. John Vianney
St. John Vianney now enjoys a four-game winning streak and looks ahead to intense matchups against equally formidable opponents including St. Rose and No. 1 ranked Ontario Christian from California. The Lancers’ focus remains sharp as they aim to build on their success, preparing for additional high-stakes games and the ultimate goal of claiming state championship glory again. "Having this win under our belt before we face tough teams feels really good," stated Stella Lockhart, recognizing the importance of momentum in their demanding schedule.
Conclusion: A Victory Worth Celebrating
This win marks a significant moment in the ongoing rivalry within the Shore Conference, exemplifying St. John Vianney's dominance in New Jersey girls basketball. The defeat of Manasquan not only snaps their undefeated streak but also establishes the Lancers as a serious contender for the title. As the season progresses, fans can expect exhilarating games and exceptional talent from these young athletes.
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