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Basketball Star Tony Acrie signs with Carlow University

Pennsylvania Highlands Community College is proud to congratulate graduating sophomore Tony Acrie on his recent signing with Carlow University to play basketball for their institution.

“Ever since high school, my dream was to keep playing basketball,” stated Tony Acrie. “Penn Highlands made that dream possible. I am excited to continue my schooling and basketball career at Carlow University. They have given me the opportunity to continue my journey, and I plan on proving my worth to them.”

In his two seasons with the Black Bears of Penn Highlands, Tony earned many accolades. During his freshman season, he was first, nationally, in the NJCAA in rebounds per game (15.1) and 27th in the nation in points per game (19.8). His sophomore campaign had him finishing second in the nation in rebounds per game (15.8) and 15th in points per game (22.0).

Tony made 2nd Team All-Region XX and WPCC All-Conference in his first season, and was 1^st Team All-Region XX and WPCC All-Conference this past year.

“Tony is the hardest working player I have ever coached. He set the tone every day in practice with his energy and attitude,” commented Penn Highlands’ Head Basketball Coach Landon Loya. “He is a great example to young players in our area of how to get it done in the classroom, on the court, and in the community. Everybody will miss him, but we are all so proud of him.”

In his two seasons with the Black Bears, Tony amassed 713 career rebounds and 963 points. Both are all-time records for Penn Highlands Community College. He also broke the school record for rebounds in a single game with 32.

Tony credits his successful two-year stint at Penn Highlands to many people within the Black Bears family including Loya, volunteer assistant Justin Harris, and Director of Student Activities and Athletics Sue Brugh. He would also like to thank Quan Brit, Xavier Thomas, and Greg Nash for their time, effort, and energy in pushing him to become the player he is today.

“I couldn’t have done this without everyone who has helped me along the way,” Acrie said. “It’s been a great journey, and I cannot wait to return and give back to this community in the future. I’ll always be a Black Bear.”

Graduating Sophomore Tony Acrie is accompanied by Sue Brugh (Athletic Director) and Landon Loya (Head Coach, Men’s Basketball) on Monday, May 1st as he signs his letter of intent to play basketball at Carlow University.