Despite a controversial and unsatisfactory start to their season, Tyrone looks to improve on a favorable week.  This Wednesday, Tyrone travels to Philipsburg for the team’s first conference game of the season, followed by Tussey Mountain at home on Saturday.

While the Mountain League tends to be extremely competitive, Phillipsburg has struggled in past years to fill their roster and stay competitive.

Last season they went winless at 0-22 overall. They have a rising coach that is trying to change the attitude that surrounds Philipsburg basketball. However, with only one returning starter and three letterwinners Tyrone has a significant chance to beat them.

If we play hard, limit turnovers, and play hard-nosed defense we should come down off the mountain with a win.

After Philipsburg, Tyrone hosts Tussey Mountain this Saturday for a double header in tandem with the girls varsity teams.

Tussey is a completely different team than Philipsburg. Tussey returns four starters and three other letter winners for an experienced team. Tussey shoots the three very well, but with their big man Andrew Bithel out with an injury until January, Tussey may have to rely on outside shooting too much.

“We know they are returning several starters and will play tough,” said Michael Lewis, “If we rebound efficiently our defense will be our motor.”

Tyrone vs. Tussey Mountain has always been a tough game. Two of the past three meetings have resulted in a point differential less than five points.

However, Tussey Mountain has lost their legendary coach Dave Bailey. Coach Bailey’s unorthodox coaching methods created physically and mentally tough teams that could beat anyone. Tussey Mountain since has hired Randy Meck, the former Chestnut Ridge coach.

If Tyrone takes care of business on the glass and can identify the shooters on Tussey’s squad quickly, then Tyrone can boost their morale going into the second full week on the season.