A cynical & critical review where the stroke of the pen was mightier than a 3 point swish at the buzzer of the 2009 – 2010 NJ basketball season.
The Cardinal Fanatic Top 10 teams in NJ – 2009-2010
1) St. Patrick
2) Trenton Catholic
3) Camden Catholic
4) St. Anthony’s
5) Paterson Catholic
6) St. Peters
7) Cherokee
8) Plainfield
9) University
10) Shabazz & Mendham
1) St. Patrick – They have 2 future NBA players on their team whose skill level is so far and beyond any other players in the state of NJ. They crushed the TOC winner by nearly 30 points without Michael Gilchrist and played many of their role players nearly half way through that game. St. Pat’s played their last game of the season as the dominating team the Cardinal Fanatic saw in the beginning of the season (Union County Tournament victory over Plainfield) when they dominated the NYC Catholic League Championship runner up Bishop Laughlin by 45 points in a pre-season game. The NJSIAA had this information concerning the early practice for some time and hesitated with a decision that was not good for NJ basketball. Since St. Patrick was not ban for the season, they are the best team in NJ. They beat the best and are the Cardinal Fanatic best team by far.
2) Trenton Catholic – A very talented team that brought the title to Trenton. The TOC champion shocked the state with their triple overtime victory over St. Anthony’s. This victory along with their TOC victory over Camden Catholic should have given them the #1 ranking but their lop-sided defeat to St. Pat’s was the deciding blow.
3) Camden Catholic – Camden Catholic only suffered 2 defeats all season. Their first loss was to the Cardinal Fanatic top rated public school, The Cherokee Chiefs in overtime, and their second loss in the TOC finals to Trenton Catholic. With signature victories over Cherokee and St. Peters, a convincing victory over Trenton Catholic would have made a good argument for Camden Catholic earning the #1 ranking.
4) St. Anthony’s - Legendary Coach Hurley had this team at the brink of being the #1 team in the state. St. Anthony’s defeat of undefeated Paterson Catholic gave them a shot at the subjective #1 ranking but Trenton Catholic threw a monkey wrench into the pot. The possibility of a #1 ranking was erased with their only lost to a NJ team, Trenton Catholic in a dramatic triple overtime contest.
5) Paterson Catholic – The #1 ranking was theirs for the taking with St. Pat’s disqualified from the state playoffs. A top 10 national ranking and an undefeated season going in to the state playoffs made it seem that Paterson Catholic was the one to earn the title of the states best team. Their loss to St. Anthony’s may have been the most devastating loss of the season for any team in the state. Their loss to St. Ant’s and how they loss had a factor in their dropping in the rankings. It probably would have helped them with some tougher in state opponents during the season.
6) St. Peters – The experience of this team seem to give the Jersey City school a chance at the state title. After suffering only 2 defeats to two nationally ranked teams – St. Anthony’s (St. Peters should have won with a 10 point lead and 2 minutes remaining in the game) & Paterson Catholic (a dead even game until Plainfield native Miles Davis suffered a concussion late in the game). Their defeat of power house Oak Hill Academy lifted St. Peters to the pinnacle of the top team in NJ. The 2nd biggest upset of this season, a loss to Camden Catholic knocked the Jersey City school down the rankings.
7) Cherokee – The favorites to take the title of top public school did just that. Their early season overtime victory over Camden Catholic proved that this was a top ten team in NJ. Another signature victory over Plainfield put the Chiefs in position to battle for a TOC title. With their victory over Newark power house Shabazz, the Chiefs just needed to repeat what they did early in the season, beat Camden Catholic. Cherokee came up one game short from the championship round. Several early season defeats were the only thing that prevented the South Jersey power from achieving a higher ranking.
8) Plainfield – Loosing only twice during the regular season to national powers, St Anthony’s and St. Patrick, did not dampen the Cardinals season. The Cardinals defeated over a dozen teams that were ranked or at one point were ranked in the top 20 in the state. This was even more impressive considering the main core of this team were 15 year olds. The Cardinals crept up to their highest ranking in nearly 30 years, #5 in the state. That was all ruined by a wounded Celtic in the Union County Championship. The Celtics made it a point to show the MSG televised audience that they were the top team in the tri-state area. This came at the expense of the Cardinals. This defeat dropped the Cardinals in the rankings for the first time all season and their loss to Cherokee in the Group 4 finals did not help their cause.
9) University – The top basketball program for the 2009-2010 season out of the largest city in NJ had to battle day in and day out with its cross town rivals of East Side, Shabazz, Science Park, and up and coming Central to just make it out of its own town. Seton Hall Prep gave them all they could take to make it out of their own county with the Essex County Championship. This alone was very impressive from the Group 1 power that made a run to become the smallest public school to win the TOC. Their run was ended in the semi finals by eventual TOC champion Trenton Catholic.
10) Shabazz – Loaded with size, The Group 2 champions seem to be the perfect match up against the Cherokee Chiefs in the TOC Championship 1st round. The Bull Dogs gave the Chiefs all they could handle and just loss on a miss 3 at the buzzer.
Mendham – The Morris County power surprised many to win the Group 3 title. With a young team, this could be a team to watch for next season. Mendham run ended with a defeat to Newark power University in the 1st round of the TOC.
Monday, March 29, 2010
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
The Final Summation - Cherokee vs. Plainfield Group 4 State Championship
In a game where both teams were shooting poorly, it was just a matter of who would knock down the big shots. A family member of Cherokee’s senior Wes Tisdale explained that this game would come down to the play of Tisdale and Nate Grant-Dewitt. The Cardinal Fanatic said the game would come down to who won the rebound battle. As all season, Plainfield only defeats came when they lost the battle of the boards. Nate and Wes actually shot nearly identically from the floor but Wes grabbed a game high 12 rebounds to help give the Cherokee Chiefs the edge on the boards. This proved to be critical where the Chiefs were able to get more second shots and the majority of the case get to the foul line.
The Cardinal Fanatic picked the Chiefs to win it all back in December with either the Cardinals or Paterson Kennedy getting second fiddle. Unfortunately this proved to be true. Tyrone Johnson scored a team high 13 points to earn MVP honors for the Cardinals and Mike Price defensive efforts held the Cherokee team high scorer, Willis Nicholson, to only 1 field goal made for the entire game but it was not enough.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Cherokee – Senior Wes Tisdale – 6’4” {ER – 14}
Tisdale scored all his points when it mattered the most. Wes shot 0 – 6 in the first half but during the 2nd half crunch time shot 50 % from the floor including 2 critical 3 pointers that shifted the momentum one final time in favor of the Chiefs. Tisdale also hit 2 shots down low with nifty reverse moves to avoid the “Rejection Renegades” of sophomores Justin Sears and Diijon Allen-Jordan. But his game high 12 rebounds, which earned him a double double, proved to be what earned him the efficiency player of the game. Wes finished off the day earning the MVP of the Group 4 championship.
2) Cherokee – Senior Phil Henry – 6’8” {ER – 14}
Although, Henry was not in the starting line up, his insertion into the game after Justin Sears and Mike Williams displayed that they were going to control the paint proved to be a critical move. Phil shot perfect from the floor and foul line, grabbed 6 rebounds, had 2 steals, and 1 rejection to fortify a Chiefs victory.
3) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 13}
Sears had to deal with 13’5” of big men down low. The big men of Cherokee, 6’9” senior Ryan McKeaney and 6’8” senior Phil Henry gave sophomore Justin Sears a tough time down low. Justin was not able to score a field goal but that did not deter him from contributing in other ways to keep the Cards in the game. Justin grabbed a team high 7 rebounds (12 according to the Star Ledger & Courier News), snatched 3 steals, and rejected 3 shots.
4) Cherokee – Senior Willis Nicholson – 5’11” {ER – 12}
The muscular quick guard had his hands full with the best on the ball defender in Mike Price holding him to 1 – 11 shooting from the field. But Nicholson found other ways to defeat the top public school in the state. Nicholson scored a game high 14 points (along with Cherokee’s Christian Jordan 14 points) by knocking down 11 out of 14 free throws (79%), had a game high 4 assists, 3 steals and 4 rebounds.
5) Cherokee – Senior Ryan McKeaney – 6’9” {ER – 12}
The 6’9” center proved to be a pivotal piece of the puzzle to secure Cherokee’s first ever-state championship. Ryan secured the zone defense down low and altered multiple lay-up attempts by the Cardinals. Ryan had a game high 4 rejections, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Stay tune for the final statistics of the Cardinals season.
The Cardinal Fanatic picked the Chiefs to win it all back in December with either the Cardinals or Paterson Kennedy getting second fiddle. Unfortunately this proved to be true. Tyrone Johnson scored a team high 13 points to earn MVP honors for the Cardinals and Mike Price defensive efforts held the Cherokee team high scorer, Willis Nicholson, to only 1 field goal made for the entire game but it was not enough.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Cherokee – Senior Wes Tisdale – 6’4” {ER – 14}
Tisdale scored all his points when it mattered the most. Wes shot 0 – 6 in the first half but during the 2nd half crunch time shot 50 % from the floor including 2 critical 3 pointers that shifted the momentum one final time in favor of the Chiefs. Tisdale also hit 2 shots down low with nifty reverse moves to avoid the “Rejection Renegades” of sophomores Justin Sears and Diijon Allen-Jordan. But his game high 12 rebounds, which earned him a double double, proved to be what earned him the efficiency player of the game. Wes finished off the day earning the MVP of the Group 4 championship.
2) Cherokee – Senior Phil Henry – 6’8” {ER – 14}
Although, Henry was not in the starting line up, his insertion into the game after Justin Sears and Mike Williams displayed that they were going to control the paint proved to be a critical move. Phil shot perfect from the floor and foul line, grabbed 6 rebounds, had 2 steals, and 1 rejection to fortify a Chiefs victory.
3) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 13}
Sears had to deal with 13’5” of big men down low. The big men of Cherokee, 6’9” senior Ryan McKeaney and 6’8” senior Phil Henry gave sophomore Justin Sears a tough time down low. Justin was not able to score a field goal but that did not deter him from contributing in other ways to keep the Cards in the game. Justin grabbed a team high 7 rebounds (12 according to the Star Ledger & Courier News), snatched 3 steals, and rejected 3 shots.
4) Cherokee – Senior Willis Nicholson – 5’11” {ER – 12}
The muscular quick guard had his hands full with the best on the ball defender in Mike Price holding him to 1 – 11 shooting from the field. But Nicholson found other ways to defeat the top public school in the state. Nicholson scored a game high 14 points (along with Cherokee’s Christian Jordan 14 points) by knocking down 11 out of 14 free throws (79%), had a game high 4 assists, 3 steals and 4 rebounds.
5) Cherokee – Senior Ryan McKeaney – 6’9” {ER – 12}
The 6’9” center proved to be a pivotal piece of the puzzle to secure Cherokee’s first ever-state championship. Ryan secured the zone defense down low and altered multiple lay-up attempts by the Cardinals. Ryan had a game high 4 rejections, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Stay tune for the final statistics of the Cardinals season.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
East Orange vs. Plainfield Semi Finals of the State Group Tournament
On a scale of 10, the Cardinals played an 8.6. The East Orange Campus Jaguars came in this game with size and more quickness than the youthful Cardinals. Junior Mario Moody Jr. of the Jaguars is an athletic freak of nature. Speed, quickness, and vertical ability second to no one in the Public School system through out the state. For the fanatics that were not in attendance, Moody is only a less skillful prototype of a Ronald Roberts of St. Peters or Michael Gilchrist of St. Patrick. But the East Orange center tried to affect the MOOD of the Cardinals center Justin Sears. With experience beyond his 2 years of basketball, the sophomore center calmly used his fundamentals to do the basics of boxing out and positioning. The battle of two of the best public school big men was a near draw but Sears came up big when needed the most to get the edge on an instant classic battle of big men. Sears clutch free throw on a one and one to tie the game in the 4th period along with a game momentum changing rejection catapulted the Cardinals to victory. Mike Price defense was surely missed during a stretch in the 3rd and 4th period (out with foul trouble) as the Jaguars outscored the Cards 19 – 4 to take the lead. The re-insertion of Price gave the Cards a boost as the Cards returned the favor by ending the game on a 15 – 3 run.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 24}
After having the stocks of Sears drop to a near collapse after the St. Patrick game, Sears and Co. rebounded miraculously to the point where the Government is looking into filing an anti-trust suit due to the monopoly that Sears has on the interior paint. Facing an ultra talented center in 6’8” Mario Moody Jr., Justin just took it as another day in the office. Justin approached this game in a business like matter by giving a double-double performance. Justin dropped 16 points while grabbing a game high tying 11 rebounds (Moody also with 11 boards). Justin also picked up a team high 3 steals and hit clutch free throws in the decisive 4th period.
2) East Orange – Junior Mario Moody Jr. – 6’8” {ER – 21}
No clear scouting report was out on this junior phenom. Mario is one of the most athletic big men in the state with major Division 1 ability. As Plainfield, East Orange has many players playing at other schools. How Moody went undiscovered, only the Jaguars can answer that. Moody was the reason this game was so tough for the Cardinals. Mario dropped a team high 11 points, grabbed a game high tying 11 rebounds, and had a game high 4 rejections. Moody will be a player to watch for next season.
3) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 11}
The composure of Johnson kept the Cards under control when the Jaguars took the lead in the final period. Johnson led all scorers with 18 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and picked up 2 steals. Johnson free throws in the final minute of the game sealed the victory for the Cardinals.
4) East Orange – Senior Dominique Debts – 6’6” {ER – 8}
Debts 2 handed slam in the 4th period erupted the Jaguar fans to their feet which gave the Jaguars a 2 point lead to quiet the Cardinal fanatics. Debts shot an efficient 67% from the floor to keep the Jaguars in the game.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 8}
Mike continues to make the efficiency rankings on the defensive side. Mike defensive skills are being notice by college recruiters. His absence during the 19 – 4 run by the Jaguars gave the East Orange fans something to cheer about. When Mike was on the floor, the Cardinals out scored the Jaguars 43 – 24. While running the point duties, Price only committed 1 turnover.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 24}
After having the stocks of Sears drop to a near collapse after the St. Patrick game, Sears and Co. rebounded miraculously to the point where the Government is looking into filing an anti-trust suit due to the monopoly that Sears has on the interior paint. Facing an ultra talented center in 6’8” Mario Moody Jr., Justin just took it as another day in the office. Justin approached this game in a business like matter by giving a double-double performance. Justin dropped 16 points while grabbing a game high tying 11 rebounds (Moody also with 11 boards). Justin also picked up a team high 3 steals and hit clutch free throws in the decisive 4th period.
2) East Orange – Junior Mario Moody Jr. – 6’8” {ER – 21}
No clear scouting report was out on this junior phenom. Mario is one of the most athletic big men in the state with major Division 1 ability. As Plainfield, East Orange has many players playing at other schools. How Moody went undiscovered, only the Jaguars can answer that. Moody was the reason this game was so tough for the Cardinals. Mario dropped a team high 11 points, grabbed a game high tying 11 rebounds, and had a game high 4 rejections. Moody will be a player to watch for next season.
3) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 11}
The composure of Johnson kept the Cards under control when the Jaguars took the lead in the final period. Johnson led all scorers with 18 points, grabbed 6 rebounds, and picked up 2 steals. Johnson free throws in the final minute of the game sealed the victory for the Cardinals.
4) East Orange – Senior Dominique Debts – 6’6” {ER – 8}
Debts 2 handed slam in the 4th period erupted the Jaguar fans to their feet which gave the Jaguars a 2 point lead to quiet the Cardinal fanatics. Debts shot an efficient 67% from the floor to keep the Jaguars in the game.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 8}
Mike continues to make the efficiency rankings on the defensive side. Mike defensive skills are being notice by college recruiters. His absence during the 19 – 4 run by the Jaguars gave the East Orange fans something to cheer about. When Mike was on the floor, the Cardinals out scored the Jaguars 43 – 24. While running the point duties, Price only committed 1 turnover.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Hillsborough vs. Plainfield Semi Finals of the State Sectional Tournament
On a scale of 10, the Cardinals played an 8.7. The Cardinals quickness and sharp shooting gave Plainfield the advantage over the Raiders of Hillsborough. The Raiders Kyle Banfield scored on multiple nifty moves, but it was not enough. Hillsborough could not get into any long stretch of offensive consistency. This may be the result of the defensive efforts of Mike Price. Nate Grant-Dewitt and Tyrone Johnson eased the deep rooted zone defensive strategy the Raiders came into the finals with. Nate and Tyrone connected for 5 from beyond the arc to loosen up the zone defense. The super sophomores of Sears, Lane, and Allen-Jordan then penetrated the new founded open lanes to open the game up and seal the victory. PLAINFIELD BACK TO BACK GROUP IV SECT II STATE CHAMPS!!!!
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 29}
Johnson continues to increase his scoring production as the Cards get further along in the NJSIAA state playoffs. Johnson scored a game high 23 points shooting 75% below the arc, 60% from beyond the arc, and 100% from the free throw line. Johnson also had 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals.
2) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 21}
Price gave a season high efficiency performance. Price continues his outstanding defensive efforts. Price has my vote for one of the top 5 defenders in the state. Price had a game high tying 4 steals (Justin Sears also with 4 steals) and a game high tying 2 rejections (Justin Sears also with 2 rejections). Price rejection of a shot that was pinned near the top of the box on the back board in the 4th period culminated an outstanding 32 minutes of defense. Mike also dropped off a game high 7 assists and shot 100% below the arc to cap off an outstanding "The Price is Right" night.
3) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 17}
Sears has just announced a hostile take over the interior paint industry. Justin controlled the paint by grabbing a game high 6 rebounds and rejecting a game high (along with Mike Price) 2 shots.
4) Plainfield – Senior Nate Grant-Dewitt – 6’5” {ER – 13}
Dr. Zone Buster extended his office hours in which he dissected a crack in the Raiders zone for 2 consecutive 3 point bombs. Dr. Buster showed that his area of specialty is not only from deep but Nate has expanded his practice down low by connecting 3 of 3 shots below the arc.
5) Hillsborough – Senior Kyle Banfield – 6’5” {ER – 12}
His size, 240lbs plus, fooled the Cardinals. Banfield showed very good quickness, mobility, and an array of moves to carve the Cardinal defense. Banfield shot 75% from the floor (6 for 8) to lead the Raiders in scoring.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 29}
Johnson continues to increase his scoring production as the Cards get further along in the NJSIAA state playoffs. Johnson scored a game high 23 points shooting 75% below the arc, 60% from beyond the arc, and 100% from the free throw line. Johnson also had 5 rebounds, 4 assists, and 3 steals.
2) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 21}
Price gave a season high efficiency performance. Price continues his outstanding defensive efforts. Price has my vote for one of the top 5 defenders in the state. Price had a game high tying 4 steals (Justin Sears also with 4 steals) and a game high tying 2 rejections (Justin Sears also with 2 rejections). Price rejection of a shot that was pinned near the top of the box on the back board in the 4th period culminated an outstanding 32 minutes of defense. Mike also dropped off a game high 7 assists and shot 100% below the arc to cap off an outstanding "The Price is Right" night.
3) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 17}
Sears has just announced a hostile take over the interior paint industry. Justin controlled the paint by grabbing a game high 6 rebounds and rejecting a game high (along with Mike Price) 2 shots.
4) Plainfield – Senior Nate Grant-Dewitt – 6’5” {ER – 13}
Dr. Zone Buster extended his office hours in which he dissected a crack in the Raiders zone for 2 consecutive 3 point bombs. Dr. Buster showed that his area of specialty is not only from deep but Nate has expanded his practice down low by connecting 3 of 3 shots below the arc.
5) Hillsborough – Senior Kyle Banfield – 6’5” {ER – 12}
His size, 240lbs plus, fooled the Cardinals. Banfield showed very good quickness, mobility, and an array of moves to carve the Cardinal defense. Banfield shot 75% from the floor (6 for 8) to lead the Raiders in scoring.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Sunday, March 7, 2010
Ridge vs. Plainfield Semi Finals of the State Sectional Tournament
On a scale of 10, the Cardinals played a 7.3. The play of Andrew “The Mad Bomber” Madlinger had a lot to do with the Cards receiving their lowest efficiency rating at the Rico Parenti Gymnasium this year. Andrew was on fire from deep and put on a Reggie Miller like performance to bring back the Red Devils from certain defeat to the edge of victory.
News alert: Sears & Roebuck has just announced a copy right infringement of the Sears & Johnson show. The two under classmen combined for 39 points, 21 rebounds, 7 steals, and 4 rejections. The game would not have been, if it was not for Dr. Zone Buster changing his office hours to down low. Nate Grant-Dewitt used the Clyde Frazier – Willis Reid pick and roll to score 3 clutch baskets down low to hold off the Hot Red Devils. Nate also grabbed 3 crucial rebounds in the final minutes of the game.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 29}
Justin is continuing to come up big so far in his first state playoff experience. Justin shot 50% from the floor scoring a team high 20 points but his other contributions were clutch. Sears grabbed a game high 14 rebounds, blocked a game high tying 2 shots (both in the final period), and had a game high 5 steals. His coast to coast dunk brought the Cardinal fanatics to their feet. This is Justin’s career high efficiency rating, and it came when the Cardinals needed it most.
2) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 20}
Johnson filled up the stat sheet by scoring 19 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 3 assists (team high along with Allen Brown), and a game high tying 2 rejections.
3) Ridge – Senior Andrew Madlinger – 6’4” {ER – 17}
Who said Reggie Miller retired! Andrew Madlinger is known through out the state as one of the best 3 point shooters. He dismayed that rumor to be factual by hitting 5 out of 6 threes. His performance brought the Red Devils back from a 7 point deficit to 2 points in the matter of seconds. Andrew also grabbed a team high 7 rebounds.
4) Ridge – Junior Tom Gambino – 6’7” {ER – 17}
Tom fouling out in the 4th period proved to be the difference in the most exciting game of the year. The big man shot an efficient 60% from the floor, had 5 rebounds and did not commit a single turnover for the entire game.
5) Ridge – Senior Nick Cefalo – 6’3” {ER – 16}
The football stud showed his toughness by fighting off one of the states best on the ball defender in Plainfield’s Mike Price. Cefalo used his strength to let the Cardinals know there would be no pick pocketing going on. Cefalo shot 100% from the foul line, grabbed 5 rebounds (4 of them in the critical 4th period), and dropped a game high 5 assists all while only committing 1 turnover. Cefalo’s assist to turnover ratio was an impressive 5 to 1. Note: This was a season low turnover by any public school guard against the Cardinals.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
News alert: Sears & Roebuck has just announced a copy right infringement of the Sears & Johnson show. The two under classmen combined for 39 points, 21 rebounds, 7 steals, and 4 rejections. The game would not have been, if it was not for Dr. Zone Buster changing his office hours to down low. Nate Grant-Dewitt used the Clyde Frazier – Willis Reid pick and roll to score 3 clutch baskets down low to hold off the Hot Red Devils. Nate also grabbed 3 crucial rebounds in the final minutes of the game.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 29}
Justin is continuing to come up big so far in his first state playoff experience. Justin shot 50% from the floor scoring a team high 20 points but his other contributions were clutch. Sears grabbed a game high 14 rebounds, blocked a game high tying 2 shots (both in the final period), and had a game high 5 steals. His coast to coast dunk brought the Cardinal fanatics to their feet. This is Justin’s career high efficiency rating, and it came when the Cardinals needed it most.
2) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 20}
Johnson filled up the stat sheet by scoring 19 points, grabbing 7 rebounds, 2 steals, 3 assists (team high along with Allen Brown), and a game high tying 2 rejections.
3) Ridge – Senior Andrew Madlinger – 6’4” {ER – 17}
Who said Reggie Miller retired! Andrew Madlinger is known through out the state as one of the best 3 point shooters. He dismayed that rumor to be factual by hitting 5 out of 6 threes. His performance brought the Red Devils back from a 7 point deficit to 2 points in the matter of seconds. Andrew also grabbed a team high 7 rebounds.
4) Ridge – Junior Tom Gambino – 6’7” {ER – 17}
Tom fouling out in the 4th period proved to be the difference in the most exciting game of the year. The big man shot an efficient 60% from the floor, had 5 rebounds and did not commit a single turnover for the entire game.
5) Ridge – Senior Nick Cefalo – 6’3” {ER – 16}
The football stud showed his toughness by fighting off one of the states best on the ball defender in Plainfield’s Mike Price. Cefalo used his strength to let the Cardinals know there would be no pick pocketing going on. Cefalo shot 100% from the foul line, grabbed 5 rebounds (4 of them in the critical 4th period), and dropped a game high 5 assists all while only committing 1 turnover. Cefalo’s assist to turnover ratio was an impressive 5 to 1. Note: This was a season low turnover by any public school guard against the Cardinals.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Friday, March 5, 2010
Columbia vs. Plainfield Quarter Finals of the State Sectional Tournament
On a scale of 10, the Cardinals played an 8.9. Dominique Blackmon gave the Cardinals a much needed relief with their top two defenders in foul trouble. Dominique shot 3 for 4 from the field while snatching 3 steals to help lead the Cardinals to a 19 point victory.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 23}
Justin is coming up big so far in his first state playoff experience. Justin shot 50% from the floor on 2 for 4 shooting but his other contributions were impressive. Sears grabbed a team high 9 rebounds, blocked a game high 7 shots, picked up 4 steals and had 3 assists while committing 2 turnovers.
2) Columbia – Senior Femi Agunbiade – 6’6” {ER – 20}
Femi did his best to carry the Cougars. Femi scored a team high 9 points on 4 for 6 shooting. Femi grabbed a game high 13 rebounds and rejected a team high 3 shots.
3) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 19}
Teams are trying their best to stop Johnson from scoring but Johnson is using his other basketball skills to lead the Cards. Tyrone scored a game high 17 points on 50% shooting, dropped a game high 7 assists (15 assists so far in the state tournament), grabbed 4 steals, and snatched 3 rebounds.
4) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 15}
Mike did not let his foul trouble affect his game. His defensive tenacity has been a catalyst for the Cardinals all year. Against Columbia it was no different. Price harassed the Cougar guards all night. Price picked up 3 steals, grabbed 4 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and shot 50% from the floor.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Williams – 6’7” {ER – 11}
Other than Johnson, Williams was the only other player to score in double digits. His mid range game is coming at the right time. His height gives him the ability to shoot over nearly all defenders. Williams shot 71% from the floor mostly on midrange jump shots while only committing 1 turnover, his first so far in the state tournament.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 23}
Justin is coming up big so far in his first state playoff experience. Justin shot 50% from the floor on 2 for 4 shooting but his other contributions were impressive. Sears grabbed a team high 9 rebounds, blocked a game high 7 shots, picked up 4 steals and had 3 assists while committing 2 turnovers.
2) Columbia – Senior Femi Agunbiade – 6’6” {ER – 20}
Femi did his best to carry the Cougars. Femi scored a team high 9 points on 4 for 6 shooting. Femi grabbed a game high 13 rebounds and rejected a team high 3 shots.
3) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 19}
Teams are trying their best to stop Johnson from scoring but Johnson is using his other basketball skills to lead the Cards. Tyrone scored a game high 17 points on 50% shooting, dropped a game high 7 assists (15 assists so far in the state tournament), grabbed 4 steals, and snatched 3 rebounds.
4) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 15}
Mike did not let his foul trouble affect his game. His defensive tenacity has been a catalyst for the Cardinals all year. Against Columbia it was no different. Price harassed the Cougar guards all night. Price picked up 3 steals, grabbed 4 rebounds, dished out 3 assists, and shot 50% from the floor.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Williams – 6’7” {ER – 11}
Other than Johnson, Williams was the only other player to score in double digits. His mid range game is coming at the right time. His height gives him the ability to shoot over nearly all defenders. Williams shot 71% from the floor mostly on midrange jump shots while only committing 1 turnover, his first so far in the state tournament.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Watchung Hills Regional vs. Plainfield round 1 of the State Tournament
On a scale of 10, the Cardinals played a 9.0. Nate Grant-Dewitt led the Cardinals to a 30 point victory with his game high 15 points. Plainfield seemed to have some sluggishness early in the game but that was shaken off midway through the third period when Allen Brown and Mike Price connected on back to back 3’s.
The most disappointing period for the Cardinals was the 1st. The Cardinals came out looking a step slower than normal. Watchung Hills took an early 2 – 0 lead but that was quickly a thing of the past. The Warriors continued to play competitively to end the 1st with a 6 point deficit.
The most impressive period for the Cardinals was the 2nd. “Dr. Zone Buster” Nate Grant-Dewitt connected on a couple of three pointers to help spear head a 26 point outburst for the Cardinals. The highlight of the period was a slam dunk by Justin Sears.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 21}
Justin scored 12 points shooting 5 for 5 from the floor. Sears played equally efficient on the defensive end also by rejecting a game high 3 shots and grabbing 2 steals. Justin controlled the glass by grabbing a game high 7 rebounds.
2) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 19}
With teams focusing their defensive efforts on slowing down Johnson, Tyrone looks to other ways to get the job done. Johnson dropped a season and game high 8 assists, had a game high 5 steals, and grabbed 4 rebounds. Johnson’s assist to turnover ratio was an impressive 4 to 1.
3) Plainfield – Senior Nate Grant-Dewitt – 6’5” {ER – 17}
Dr. Zone Buster was at it again with his soft outside touch. Nate shot 50% from beyond the three point line and shot a perfect 3 for 3 from below the arc to lead all scorers.
4) Watchung Hills – Senior Colin Heinle – 6’0” {ER – 16}
If it was not for the early foul trouble, Colin may have been able to get the Warriors closer. Colin was the team high scorer with 14 points shooting 56% from the floor while playing in a limited amount of time.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 16}
Mike Price continues to display that he is one of the best on the ball defenders in the state. Mike snatched 4 steals but on this night his offensive game was even more efficient. Price shot 80% from the floor and hit his only attempt from deep for three points.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
The most disappointing period for the Cardinals was the 1st. The Cardinals came out looking a step slower than normal. Watchung Hills took an early 2 – 0 lead but that was quickly a thing of the past. The Warriors continued to play competitively to end the 1st with a 6 point deficit.
The most impressive period for the Cardinals was the 2nd. “Dr. Zone Buster” Nate Grant-Dewitt connected on a couple of three pointers to help spear head a 26 point outburst for the Cardinals. The highlight of the period was a slam dunk by Justin Sears.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Justin Sears – 6’7” {ER – 21}
Justin scored 12 points shooting 5 for 5 from the floor. Sears played equally efficient on the defensive end also by rejecting a game high 3 shots and grabbing 2 steals. Justin controlled the glass by grabbing a game high 7 rebounds.
2) Plainfield – Junior Tyrone Johnson – 6’3” {ER – 19}
With teams focusing their defensive efforts on slowing down Johnson, Tyrone looks to other ways to get the job done. Johnson dropped a season and game high 8 assists, had a game high 5 steals, and grabbed 4 rebounds. Johnson’s assist to turnover ratio was an impressive 4 to 1.
3) Plainfield – Senior Nate Grant-Dewitt – 6’5” {ER – 17}
Dr. Zone Buster was at it again with his soft outside touch. Nate shot 50% from beyond the three point line and shot a perfect 3 for 3 from below the arc to lead all scorers.
4) Watchung Hills – Senior Colin Heinle – 6’0” {ER – 16}
If it was not for the early foul trouble, Colin may have been able to get the Warriors closer. Colin was the team high scorer with 14 points shooting 56% from the floor while playing in a limited amount of time.
5) Plainfield – Senior Mike Price – 6’2” {ER – 16}
Mike Price continues to display that he is one of the best on the ball defenders in the state. Mike snatched 4 steals but on this night his offensive game was even more efficient. Price shot 80% from the floor and hit his only attempt from deep for three points.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Tuesday, March 2, 2010
Union County Finals – Plainfield vs. St. Patrick
St. Patrick playing their last game of the season showed why they should be considered the #1 team in the state. Losing 3 games all season by a total of 3 points to National Powers (Findlay Prep of Las Vegas, Nevada (Gilchrist played with one leg) – St. Benedicts of Newark (Gilchrist did not play), and Oak Hill Academy of Virginia (same day discovered they were being investigated by the NJSIAA). All three losses were devastating but not as devastating as the ruling of the NJSIAA to ban the Celtics from State tournament play.
The Celtics played Plainfield like it was their last game and Kyrie “The Magnificent” Irving put on a show. His play was the efficiency performance of the year.
Plainfield did not have the horses to compete with the Mighty Celtics. The Cardinals took on the challenge but suffered their worst defeat of the year.
Looking forward the Cardinals will not face anyone as good as St. Pats for the remainder of the season. Good luck against Watchung Hills. This will be the first game for the Cardinals in defending their Sectional Championship.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) St. Patrick – Senior Kyrie Irving – 6’3” {ER – 40}*
Kyrie put on a performance for the ages. Fans in attendance witnessed one of the best guards to ever come out of the Garden State. Kyrie dropped a game high 30 points. Kyrie shot 92% from below the arc (11 for 12), 100% from above the arc (2 for 2), garnished 5 steals, dropped off 3 assists, and 1 rejection while only committing 1 turnover.
2) St. Patrick – Junior Michael Gilchrist – 6’8” {ER – 23}
Michael displayed why Villanova and Kentucky has strong interest in the #1 junior basketball player in the nation. Gilchrist shot 63% from the floor mostly on dunks, 100% from the free throw line, had a game high 4 rejections, grabbed 4 rebounds, picked up 2 steals, and dished 2 assists while committing 0 turnovers.
3) St. Patrick – Junior Derrick Gordon – 6’3” {ER – 19}
The Plainfield native dropped 17 points shooting 67% from the floor. The Western Kentucky commit dropped a game high 4 assists, had 1 rejection and picked up 4 steals to complete an efficient game.
4) Plainfield – Senior Mike Williams – 6’7” {ER – 12}
Mike was perfect from the floor (3 – 3) and perfect from the foul line. Mike also grabbed 4 rebounds and did not commit a turnover.
5) St. Patrick – Junior Jarrel Lane – 6’1” {ER – 11}
On any other team, the Roselle native would be a go to player. Jarrel played the point guard position to near perfect efficiency. Lane hit his only shot attempt, a 3 from 25 feet out, collected 2 steals, and dished out a game high 4 assist (along with Derrick Gordon) while not committing a turnover, which is a rarity for a point guard. Lane completed the day with a 4 – 0 assist to turnover ratio.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
*Breaks Tyrone Johnson previous efficiency high of 36.
The Celtics played Plainfield like it was their last game and Kyrie “The Magnificent” Irving put on a show. His play was the efficiency performance of the year.
Plainfield did not have the horses to compete with the Mighty Celtics. The Cardinals took on the challenge but suffered their worst defeat of the year.
Looking forward the Cardinals will not face anyone as good as St. Pats for the remainder of the season. Good luck against Watchung Hills. This will be the first game for the Cardinals in defending their Sectional Championship.
The Plainfield Fanatic Efficient 5 for the game
1) St. Patrick – Senior Kyrie Irving – 6’3” {ER – 40}*
Kyrie put on a performance for the ages. Fans in attendance witnessed one of the best guards to ever come out of the Garden State. Kyrie dropped a game high 30 points. Kyrie shot 92% from below the arc (11 for 12), 100% from above the arc (2 for 2), garnished 5 steals, dropped off 3 assists, and 1 rejection while only committing 1 turnover.
2) St. Patrick – Junior Michael Gilchrist – 6’8” {ER – 23}
Michael displayed why Villanova and Kentucky has strong interest in the #1 junior basketball player in the nation. Gilchrist shot 63% from the floor mostly on dunks, 100% from the free throw line, had a game high 4 rejections, grabbed 4 rebounds, picked up 2 steals, and dished 2 assists while committing 0 turnovers.
3) St. Patrick – Junior Derrick Gordon – 6’3” {ER – 19}
The Plainfield native dropped 17 points shooting 67% from the floor. The Western Kentucky commit dropped a game high 4 assists, had 1 rejection and picked up 4 steals to complete an efficient game.
4) Plainfield – Senior Mike Williams – 6’7” {ER – 12}
Mike was perfect from the floor (3 – 3) and perfect from the foul line. Mike also grabbed 4 rebounds and did not commit a turnover.
5) St. Patrick – Junior Jarrel Lane – 6’1” {ER – 11}
On any other team, the Roselle native would be a go to player. Jarrel played the point guard position to near perfect efficiency. Lane hit his only shot attempt, a 3 from 25 feet out, collected 2 steals, and dished out a game high 4 assist (along with Derrick Gordon) while not committing a turnover, which is a rarity for a point guard. Lane completed the day with a 4 – 0 assist to turnover ratio.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
*Breaks Tyrone Johnson previous efficiency high of 36.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
