Penn Hills senior celebrates 1,000-point milestone, playoff return

By: Josh Rizzo
Sunday, February 18, 2024 | 11:01 AM

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Hannah Pugliese didn’t want to think about the chase for 1,000 points. Until about midway through this season, the Penn Hills girls basketball team senior didn’t think it was possible anyway.

Pugliese, who has signed to play basketball at Slippery Rock next season, became more aware of the possibility as the season went on.

“I found out from my athletic director that it was possible to hit my 1,000th point about halfway through the season,” Pugliese said. “I wasn’t sure if it was going to happen. I didn’t want to get my hopes up.”

Pugliese, who led the team in scoring by averaging more than 10 points per game this season, ended up hitting the mark during one of the best stretches for Penn Hills. The Indians won their final three-section games against Indiana, Plum and Kiski to clinch a playoff spot.

Pugliese is the first Penn Hills player to reach 1,000 points since Desiree Oliver did in 2016.

Penn Hills finished the regular season with an 11-11 record and a 7-5 mark in section. The Indians were scheduled to open the playoffs with a game against Thomas Jefferson on Feb. 16 in the WPIAL Class 5A preliminary round. The game was played after the deadline for this edition.

“I tried not to think about getting my 1,000th point because I didn’t want it to throw me off during games,” Pugliese said. “Although when the time came at Kiski, it was a very surreal feeling.”

Pugliese was happy with the support she received following Penn Hills’ 52-42 road win over Kiski Area on Feb. 9. It completed a season sweep of the Cavaliers, and her teammates honored her with a sign celebrating the moment.

Pugliese was also happy that she could help Penn Hills make it back to the playoffs for the second straight season after the team finished 1-18 during her sophomore season.

“I was thrilled because my family, friends, teammates and coaches made it such a special night for me with all their support,” Pugliese said. “With the 1,000-point posters, flowers, T-shirts and my personal favorite, a 1,000-point basketball, it was a great night to remember.”

Tags: Penn Hills