Olivia Ciullo Obituary: Old Forge High School Basketball Star Dies in Tragic Accident – Scranton, PA

Scranton, Pennsylvania – The communities of Scranton and Old Forge, PA, are mourning the devastating loss of Olivia Ciullo, a beloved Old Forge High School graduate and standout basketball player, who tragically passed away following a car accident. News of her unexpected death has left family, friends, teammates, coaches, and community members heartbroken, describing the loss as “unreal” and “too painful to process.”

Olivia was known not only for her incredible talent on the basketball court but also for her leadership, intelligence, and kindness. Her vibrant energy and positive attitude made her a cherished figure both in athletics and academics, leaving behind a legacy that will be remembered for generations.

---

A Star On and Off the Court

Standing 5-foot-8 and wearing #22, Olivia Ciullo played the forward position, known for her gritty defense and ability to take on tough opponents with confidence and composure. A proud Old Forge High School Blue Devil, she went on to play collegiate basketball, where she achieved remarkable success both athletically and academically.

During the 2024–25 season, Olivia earned multiple prestigious honors, including:

• First Team All-Atlantic East Conference

• Academic Honor Roll

• Atlantic East Player of the Week and Defensive Player of the Week

• CSC Academic All-District

• Gryphon Invitational All-Tournament Team

• Chi Alpha Sigma Honor Society induction

Her consistency and work ethic made her a respected name in the Atlantic East Conference. Coaches and teammates alike spoke of her calm leadership and the way she guided younger players, helping them build confidence through encouragement and example.

In previous seasons, Olivia continued to shine — earning Defensive Player of the Week and multiple All-Conference honors between 2021 and 2023. Her career showcased not only her athletic skill but also her relentless drive to grow, adapt, and inspire.

---

A Record-Setting Legacy at Old Forge High School

Before her collegiate career, Olivia Ciullo was already a local sports legend in Old Forge. She earned numerous honors throughout her high school years, including:

• All-Lackawanna League First Team (3x)

• All-District 2 Team (2x)

• Lackawanna All-Region Team

• PIAA All-State First and Third Team honors

Olivia finished her high school career with an astounding 1,436 career points, securing her place among the top players in Old Forge basketball history. Her determination, defensive strength, and leadership helped shape the culture of success that continues to inspire young athletes in the region today.

---

A Brilliant Mind and a Compassionate Heart

Beyond her athletic achievements, Olivia was admired for her brilliance and compassion. A dedicated student, she served as Class Treasurer, earned a place on the Honor Roll, and was a proud member of the National Honor Society.

At the time of her passing, Olivia was pursuing a degree in Communication Sciences and Disorders – Speech-Language Pathology, a field that reflected her desire to help others find their voice. Her friends and professors describe her as empathetic, motivated, and driven to make a difference in people’s lives.

---

Tributes and Community Mourning

Since news of her passing, tributes have flooded social media from friends, teammates, coaches, and community members across Pennsylvania. Many have shared stories of how Olivia’s determination and kindness touched their lives.

“Olivia wasn’t just a player — she was the heartbeat of the team. Her laugh, her leadership, her drive… she made everyone around her better,” one teammate wrote.

The Old Forge and Scranton communities are organizing candlelight vigils, fundraisers, and memorial tributes in Olivia’s honor. Signed basketballs, banners, and heartfelt messages fill the gyms where she once played, celebrating her remarkable life and enduring spirit.

---

Remembering Olivia Ciullo

Olivia leaves behind her loving parents, Rose Ungaro and Mike Ciullo, her extended family, her teammates, and countless friends who adored her. Her passing is a profound loss to the entire region, but her legacy of excellence, compassion, and courage will continue to inspire.

Rest in peace, Olivia Ciullo. Your name, your light, and your legacy will forever echo through the halls of Old Forge High School and beyond.