Serra

The past week: Heatherington scored 50 points in an 88-74 victory Tuesday against Neshannock in a WPIAL Class A semifinal. He had 27 in an 80-59 quarterfinal victory Friday against Our Lady of the Sacred Heart.

Check this out: Heatherington set a WPIAL playoff record, breaking the mark of 48 by Central Catholic's Marc Marotta in 1980. The WPIAL has been staging championship games and playoffs since the early 1900s. Heatherington, a 5-foot-10 senior guard, averages 24.7 points a game and has signed with Point Park. He also was a standout quarterback-defensive back in football for Serra.

Ever score close to 50 in any game in your life? Never. I had 40 earlier this year against East Allegheny, but that's it.

Did you have a feeling that Neshannock just couldn't stop you? I guess so, but I just kind of played and did whatever came to me.

Does that record mean much to you? I didn't even know about it until you just told me. Wow. I guess it's wonderful and a great honor. Knowing how many great players there have been in the WPIAL playoffs in the past, and to be mentioned with them is awesome.

The best high school player you've ever seen? O.J. Mayo in an AAU game.

You are intense on the court. Is there anyone in college or the NBA you like? I like Steve Nash a lot. He's crafty.

If you could go to any college in the country on a scholarship, where would you go? Point Park.

I said anywhere. What about North Carolina, Duke or somewhere like that? Nope [laugh]. Point Park.

-- By Mike White

New Castle

This week: Rodgers had five 3-pointers and 19 points in a 63-29 victory Tuesday against South Park in the WPIAL Class AAA semifinals.

Check this out: Rodgers, a 5-foot-7 senior guard, averages 15 points a game and has made more than 70 3-pointers this season. She also is the starting catcher on New Castle's softball team. She transferred from Ellwood City to New Castle after her freshman year.

Are shooters born, or are they made? I'd say made. They're made with practice.

What is the biggest key, as far as technique, to being a good shooter? For me, it's making sure my right elbow is in.

Your team played Class AAAA until moving down to AAA this season. Is there a big difference? I don't think it's that big, but you can't be as aggressive in Triple-A. That's about all. They call some fouls closer in Triple-A.

Why is New Castle always good at girls' basketball? I think it's something that took a lot of time to develop and we have a great coach [Luann Grybowski].

Any player on any level you look up to? Pitt's Levance Fields. I just think he's great. He's always up to the challenge.

It's 10 o'clock at night and you're hungry. What are you going to eat? If I'm out, it's probably Dunkin' Donuts. If I'm at home, it's cereal.

-- By Mike White