The Northwestern Lehigh High School boys basketball team finished up a strong season in the Lehigh Valley summer league this past week.

The Tigers won nine of 12 games during the regular season portion of their schedule, and qualified for the playoffs as the second overall seed.

Northwestern fell in its first matchup in the semifinals of the Small School Division July 14, at Executive Education Charter School, losing to the three seed, Lehigh Valley Academy 64-43.

“We have had a really good summer so far,” said head coach Pat Wanamaker. “We have played a lot of games and played a lot of basketball as a team, which is good for experience.

“The kids have been very dedicated, and given a lot of time to our program this summer. Our summer league experience was very good. We finished 9-3 and qualified for the playoffs, which is important because it allows us to play another game together. I’m proud of how the guys grew and played.”

Top performers this summer include the duo of Kale Kumernitsky and Brady Krimmel, who have been mainstays at the top of the scoring column.

“Kale and Brady have been working really hard this offseason to be as good of ballplayers as they possibly can,” said Wanamaker.

“They are leaders for us, and the younger guys really take to their lead in everything. I’m excited to see what’s in store for them this season.”

LV Academy went on to take down the top seed and undefeated Southern Lehigh in the championship game July 16, 48-46. The Spartans were 12-0, while LV Academy was 8-3.

Other teams in the Small School Division included Warren Hills (5-7), Northern Lehigh (4-7), Catasauqua (3-9), Palmerton (3-9) and Salisbury (3-9).

“Overall, there was a lot of growth this summer, which as a coach you have to be happy about,” Wanamaker said.

“We have a lot of younger guys this year, and them getting to play so many games together is only going to improve their skills and make them better.”