Top Efficiency Performance of the 2010 – 2011 Season in a Plainfield Game - 1st Team All Efficiency Performance
1) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-47}**
WOW!!! That explains it all. In order to get a better efficiency rating than some one that put up 41 points (Mendham’s Tori Vicarisi) you must have done a whole lot of other things. Sears gave one of the greatest all-time performances since Kenny Fields (one of my top 5 all time Plainfield players) put up 21 points in 5 minutes against Atlantic City back in 1980! Sears carried the Cardinals Scoring 24 points on 69% shooting from the field. So you may say ho-hum but matched that with a 20-rebound effort (star ledger had him for 26) which 11 were offensive rebounds. This gave Sears his patented double-double performance (a 20 – 20 performance to be more specific) but much more would be needed for the Cardinals to pull this one out. Sears flirted with a triple double and missing it by 3 rejections. Justin smacked away 7 shots (should have been at least 8 – called for a questionable goal tending which sent Coach Lubreski through the ROOF)!!! Justin also picked up 3 steals (one for a coast to coast dunk AND ONE!) and dropped off 1 assist. All this activity and only 2 turnovers for the game – (Did not say he was perfect – LOL!!!).
2) Mendham – Senior Tori Vicarisi 6’4” {ER-35}
What a performance!! I thought I was having a flash back of when Kelly Tripuka (Bloomfield) and Rodney Tucker (Plainfield) were battling in a Sectional playoff game back in 76! Tori gave his best Tripuka impersonation as he dropped an eye popping 41 points! With his dipsy doodle ambidextrous shooting ability, Tori connected for 53% shooting from the floor and 82% shooting from the free throw line. Tori also gave an impressive double-double performance by grabbing 13 rebounds. Tori V finished off his stat line with 3 assists that were beautifully executed back door passes that only Joe Montana could make. Tori’s offensive explosion was impressive! To appreciate his performance you must consider he was giving up nearly 4 inches. On any other opponent he may have hit the half-century mark in points! This is the most points scored against a Cardinal team in recent memory and needs to be verified. Thirst for Knowledge, please verify!
3) Plainfield – Junior Jahmal Lane 6’3” {ER-31}*
Jahmal gave his best performance of his varsity career. In hindsight, Jahmal’s early season nagging injury may be the difference in the Cardinals being 6-0 instead of 4-2. Jahmal Lane is looking much healthier as he scored a career high and game high 18 points. Lane shot 57% below the arc, and shot an impressive 3-3 (100%) from the 3-point line. Lane also contributed with 8 rebounds and a game high 6 rejections. Lane committed only 1 turnover.
4) St. Patrick – Senior Derrick Gordon 6’3” {ER-31}
If Derrick continues to shoot lights out as he exhibited against Plainfield, he will be the 3rd Plainfield native to be named First Team All-State in the last 2 years and the 2nd in his household in the last decade. Plainfield strategy to slow down Michael Gilchrist worked to a point but Derrick took advantage of open shots. Derrick scored a game high 28 points connecting for 50% of his shots below the arc, and sizzling for 83% of his shots from beyond the arc. Derrick continued his hot hand by being perfect from the foul line (4 – 4). Derrick also grabbed 4 rebounds and dished out 4 assists. Derrick had an impressive 4-1 assist to turnover ratio.
5) Pocono Mt. West (Pa) – Senior Tynell Fortune 5’11” {ER-31}
Tynell “Bombs Away” Fortune put on a shooting exhibition from the free throw line and from behind the arc. The Cardinal Fanatic scouting report new Tynell was a high scorer but his exhibition on Saturday brought back bad memories of Nichols of Cherokee in last years State Championship. The only difference Fortune is a much better shooter. Fortune connected on 4 out of 5 treys from well beyond 23 feet to an astonished the Cardinal crowd. Fortune also connected on 10 out of 11 free throws to lead all scorers in the game with 28 points. Fortune also led the Panthers in rebounds (6) and assists (3).
Monday, April 25, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
2nd Team All Efficiency Performance
Top Efficiency Performance of the 2010 – 2011 Season in a Plainfield Game - 2nd Team All Efficiency Performance
6) Plainfield - Junior Dii'Jon Allen-Jordan 6'6" {ER-30}
Dii'Jon scored a game high 24 points on 69% shooting from the floor. Dii'Jon grabbed 7 rebounds and had a game high 4 rejections. His 2 handed block of a shot attempt by the 6'10" Edson Avila was pinned at the top of the box which had the crowd amazed!
7) Linden - Senior Elijah Hodge - 5'11" {ER-28}
Hodge was the key to the victory with his pull up jumper. Hodge shot 75% below the arc and 67% from the 3 to total a game high 21 points. Hodge also had a game high 5 steals, a team high 4 assists all while committing only 1 turnover.
8) Westfield - Senior Ryan Hess 6’3” {ER-25}
Ryan scored a team high 19 points on 75% shooting below the arc and was perfect (2 for 2) from the 3-point line. Hess also dropped 4 assists, grabbed 4 rebounds, while committing 2 turnovers from the guard position.
9) Robeson (NY) – Senior Sean Pond 5’11” {ER-25}
Sean bears a striking resemblance to Memphis University freshman starting point guard Joe Jackson. The similarities do not stop there. Sean lightning quickness was able to give him 63% shooting below the arc and 50% shooting from the 3 point line. Sean also shot 9 – 10 (90%) from the free throw line which gave him a game high 22 points scored. Sean was named Robeson player of the game for Robeson.
10) Chester (PA) - Senior Maurice Nelson 5'11" {ER-25}
Nelson (younger brother of Orlando Magic's Jameer Nelson) scored a game high 20 points on perfect shooting below the arc and 57% shooting from beyond the arc. Nelson also picked up a game high 6 steals.
6) Plainfield - Junior Dii'Jon Allen-Jordan 6'6" {ER-30}
Dii'Jon scored a game high 24 points on 69% shooting from the floor. Dii'Jon grabbed 7 rebounds and had a game high 4 rejections. His 2 handed block of a shot attempt by the 6'10" Edson Avila was pinned at the top of the box which had the crowd amazed!
7) Linden - Senior Elijah Hodge - 5'11" {ER-28}
Hodge was the key to the victory with his pull up jumper. Hodge shot 75% below the arc and 67% from the 3 to total a game high 21 points. Hodge also had a game high 5 steals, a team high 4 assists all while committing only 1 turnover.
8) Westfield - Senior Ryan Hess 6’3” {ER-25}
Ryan scored a team high 19 points on 75% shooting below the arc and was perfect (2 for 2) from the 3-point line. Hess also dropped 4 assists, grabbed 4 rebounds, while committing 2 turnovers from the guard position.
9) Robeson (NY) – Senior Sean Pond 5’11” {ER-25}
Sean bears a striking resemblance to Memphis University freshman starting point guard Joe Jackson. The similarities do not stop there. Sean lightning quickness was able to give him 63% shooting below the arc and 50% shooting from the 3 point line. Sean also shot 9 – 10 (90%) from the free throw line which gave him a game high 22 points scored. Sean was named Robeson player of the game for Robeson.
10) Chester (PA) - Senior Maurice Nelson 5'11" {ER-25}
Nelson (younger brother of Orlando Magic's Jameer Nelson) scored a game high 20 points on perfect shooting below the arc and 57% shooting from beyond the arc. Nelson also picked up a game high 6 steals.
Next up 1st Team All Efficiency!
Stay tune for the top 5 Efficiency Performances in a Cardinal game for the 2010 - 2011 Season.
Thursday, April 21, 2011
3rd Team All Efficiency Performance
Top Efficiency Performance of the 2010 – 2011 Season in a Plainfield Game - 3rd Team All Efficiency Performance
11) Rahway – Junior Hakeem Kornegay 5’11” {ER-25}
Do not let his size fool you. Kornegay is a gritty competitor. Hakeem scored a game high 22 points on 44% shooting from 2-point range, 33% from 3-point range, and 100% (11-11) from the free throw line. To add to his impressive foul line shooting, Kornegay grabbed 4 rebounds (Myron “Sky Walker” Mayes also with 4 rebounds), picked a team high tying 4 steals (Myron “Sky Walker” Mayes also with 4 steals), and dropped a game high 3 assists.
12) Plainfield – Senior Allen Brown 6’1” {ER-24}
Allen Brown saved his best performance for his last possible home game. Lock ‘Em’ Down Brown was in full effect as his defensive effort gave the fans flash back of last years Cardinal Fanatic defensive player of the year Mike Price. Brown garnished a game high 7 steals. Brown was extremely efficient in other statistical categories as he scored 10 points on 75% shooting below the arc and 50% shooting from beyond the arc. Brown also dropped 4 assists and grabbed 3 rebounds. The 3 year varsity guard had a not so shabby 4-0 assist to turnover ratio.
13) Governor Livingston - Senior Kevin Ferguson 6'10" {ER-24}
Kevin surprised the Cardinals faithful with his fluidity around the basket. With a wing span just short of a seven footer, Ferguson caused multiple problems for the Cardinals on both ends of the floor. Kevin scored a team high tying 15 points on 55% shooting from the floor. Kevin also had a team high 13 rebounds, dropped 2 assists, and 1 rejection to lead the Highlanders to the near upset.
14) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-24}
Denzel shot 55% from the field to score 12 points in the game. But Denzel does not just have a famous actor’s name, as it was no act what Denzel did in the interior paint. Christian grabbed 7 rebounds to go along with his game high 7 rejections to fortify the paint for the Cardinals.
15) Ridge – Junior Dylan Kerwin 6’4” {ER-24}
I thought Madlinger “The Mad Bomber” was still attending Ridge! But it was actually a 2 headed monster that was bombing away. The 2 headed monsters were the Kerwin brothers. The identical twins put on a shooting exhibition that the graduated Madlinger would be proud of. Dylan “The Slinger” Kerwin shot a hot 56% from behind the arc dropping 21 points for the game. Dylan was perfect from the foul line shooting 4-4, grabbed 3 rebounds and dished out a team high tying 3 assists (Erick Thomas also with 3 assists). Dylan was very efficient with the rock by committing no turnovers for the game including overtime. Dylan completed the game with a 3-0 assist to turnover ratio to go with his perfect foul shooting and impressive shooting percentage from deep.
Next up 2nd Team All Efficiency
11) Rahway – Junior Hakeem Kornegay 5’11” {ER-25}
Do not let his size fool you. Kornegay is a gritty competitor. Hakeem scored a game high 22 points on 44% shooting from 2-point range, 33% from 3-point range, and 100% (11-11) from the free throw line. To add to his impressive foul line shooting, Kornegay grabbed 4 rebounds (Myron “Sky Walker” Mayes also with 4 rebounds), picked a team high tying 4 steals (Myron “Sky Walker” Mayes also with 4 steals), and dropped a game high 3 assists.
12) Plainfield – Senior Allen Brown 6’1” {ER-24}
Allen Brown saved his best performance for his last possible home game. Lock ‘Em’ Down Brown was in full effect as his defensive effort gave the fans flash back of last years Cardinal Fanatic defensive player of the year Mike Price. Brown garnished a game high 7 steals. Brown was extremely efficient in other statistical categories as he scored 10 points on 75% shooting below the arc and 50% shooting from beyond the arc. Brown also dropped 4 assists and grabbed 3 rebounds. The 3 year varsity guard had a not so shabby 4-0 assist to turnover ratio.
13) Governor Livingston - Senior Kevin Ferguson 6'10" {ER-24}
Kevin surprised the Cardinals faithful with his fluidity around the basket. With a wing span just short of a seven footer, Ferguson caused multiple problems for the Cardinals on both ends of the floor. Kevin scored a team high tying 15 points on 55% shooting from the floor. Kevin also had a team high 13 rebounds, dropped 2 assists, and 1 rejection to lead the Highlanders to the near upset.
14) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-24}
Denzel shot 55% from the field to score 12 points in the game. But Denzel does not just have a famous actor’s name, as it was no act what Denzel did in the interior paint. Christian grabbed 7 rebounds to go along with his game high 7 rejections to fortify the paint for the Cardinals.
15) Ridge – Junior Dylan Kerwin 6’4” {ER-24}
I thought Madlinger “The Mad Bomber” was still attending Ridge! But it was actually a 2 headed monster that was bombing away. The 2 headed monsters were the Kerwin brothers. The identical twins put on a shooting exhibition that the graduated Madlinger would be proud of. Dylan “The Slinger” Kerwin shot a hot 56% from behind the arc dropping 21 points for the game. Dylan was perfect from the foul line shooting 4-4, grabbed 3 rebounds and dished out a team high tying 3 assists (Erick Thomas also with 3 assists). Dylan was very efficient with the rock by committing no turnovers for the game including overtime. Dylan completed the game with a 3-0 assist to turnover ratio to go with his perfect foul shooting and impressive shooting percentage from deep.
Next up 2nd Team All Efficiency
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
4th Team All Efficiency Performance
Top Efficiency Performance of the 2010 – 2011 Season in a Plainfield Game - 4th Team All Efficiency Performance
16) Plainfield - Junior Sekou Harris 6’0” {ER-23}
Sekou scored a game high 26 points on 63% shooting below the arc and 50% shooting from the 3-point line. Harris also had a game high 4 steals.
17) Robeson (NY) – Senior Christopher Miller 6’4” {ER-23}
Miller did not let Plainfield’s height advantage stop him from giving an efficient performance. Miller shot 5 – 7 (71%) from the floor, grabbed 8 rebounds and committed no turnovers. Miller may have increased his performance if he did not foul out early in the 4th period.
18) St. Anthony – Senior Myles Mack 5’11” {ER-23}
The Rutgers bound shooting/point guard carried the Friars to victory. Mack scored a game high 23 points. Mack connected on 67% shooting below the arc, 50% shooting from beyond the arc, had a game high 5 steals, 3 assists, all while only committing one turnover from the guard position.
19) St. Anthony – Junior Kyle Anderson 6’9” {ER-22}
The most sought after junior in the state and a top 10 junior prospect in the nation played an exceptional game on both ends of the floor. Kyle scored a team high 17 points on 56% shooting from below the arc, hit his only 3-point attempt, had 2 steals, grabbed a team high tying 5 rebounds (Jerome Frink & Lucious Jones also with 5 rebounds), dropped a game high 6 assists, and had 1 rejection.
20) St. Anthony – Senior Lucious Jones 6’6” {ER-22}
Jones was Lucky on the spot. Jones used his experience and muscular statue to be in the right spot at the right time to frustrate the Cardinal big men by positioning and boxing out. Lucky dropped 17 points shooting 80% from the floor. Jones also grabbed 5 rebounds, had 4 steals, and only committed 1 turnover.
Next up 3rd Team All Efficiency
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Honorable Mention:
Top Efficiency Performance of the 2010 – 2011 Season in a Plainfield Game -
Honarable Mention
http://photos.nj.com/star-ledger/2011/03/plainfield_vs_mendham_basketba_5.html
Mendham - Senior Drew Jacobs - 6'3" {ER-21}
St. Patrick - Senior Michael Gilchrist - 6'8" {ER-21}
Elizabeth - Sophomore Hakeem Rojers - 6'2" {ER-21}
Linden - Senior Rodney Sanders - 6'3" {ER-20}
Chester (PA) - Sophomore Rondae Jefferson - 6'6" {ER-20}
Rice (NY) - Junior Melvin Johnson - 6'3" {ER-20}
Somerville - Senior Steve Garfi - 6'0" {ER-20}
Ridge - Junior Jack Kerwin - 6'4" {ER-20}
Piscataway - Junior Greg Davis - 6'3" {ER-19}
Thomas Jefferson (NY) - Junior Davontay Grace - 6'3" {ER-18}
Union - Senior Chris Foreman - 6'1" {ER-18}
St. Anthony - Junior Jerome Frink - 6'5" {ER-18}
Rice (NY) - Senior Richard Council - 6'6" {ER-18}
Thomas Jefferson (NY) - Senior Eric Turpin - 6'4" {ER-17}
Rice (NY) - Senior Emmanuel Andujar - 6'5" {ER-16}
MSIT (NY) - Senior Brian Hogan Gary - 6'4" {ER-16}
Linden - Senior J.R. Pringley - 6'8" {ER-16}
Somerville - Senior Jake Grady - 6'5" {ER-16}
St. Patrick - Freshman Dakari Johnson - 6'10" {ER-16}
Westfield - Senior J. Greenspan - 6'4" {ER-15}
St. Patrick - Senior Jarrel Lane - 6'1" {ER-15}
Chester (Pa) - Senior Dequann Walker - 6'4" {ER-15}
Union - Junior Marcus Carter - 6'4" {ER-15}
Teaneck - Junior Chris Jones - 6'4" {ER-15}
Governor Livingston - Senior Brendan Dilandro - 6'4" {ER-15}
Elizabeth - Senior Malik Wineglass - 6'7" {ER-15}
Elixabeth - Junior Jamal Harmon - 6'3" {ER-14}
Teaneck - Junior Branden Davis - 6'5" {ER-14}
Teaneck - Junior DeQuan Russ - 6'2" {ER-13}
Chatham - Junior Brendan Damodaran - 6'1" {ER-13}
Union - Senior Chicoziem Ikwuegbu - 6'2" {ER-13}
Plainfield - Senior Vaughn Anderson - 6'3" {ER-13}
Westfield - Senior T. Younger - 6'0" {ER-13}
St. Anthony - Senior Jordan Quick - 6'1" {ER-13}
Plainfield - Junior Chad Lewis - 6'4" {ER-12}
Rahway - Junior JaQuan Matthews - 6'0" {ER-12}
Burlington Twp - Senior Danny Rodriguez - 6'5" {ER-12}
Burlington Twp - Senior Avery Holiday - 6'3" {ER-12}
Union - Senior Nana Ansah - 6'0" {ER-12}
Piscataway - Senior Tajae Sharpe - 6'2" {ER-12}
Westfield - Senior S. Toresco - 6'5" {ER-11}
St Augustine - Sophomore Ryan Buchowski - 6'3" {ER-10}
Rahway - Senior Myron Mayes - 6'3" {ER-9}
Cranford - Sophomore Reginald Green - 6'4" {ER-9}
Cranford - Senior Sean Trotter - 6'0" {ER-9}
Next up - All Efficiency 4th Team...
Honarable Mention
http://photos.nj.com/star-ledger/2011/03/plainfield_vs_mendham_basketba_5.html
Mendham - Senior Drew Jacobs - 6'3" {ER-21}
St. Patrick - Senior Michael Gilchrist - 6'8" {ER-21}
Elizabeth - Sophomore Hakeem Rojers - 6'2" {ER-21}
Linden - Senior Rodney Sanders - 6'3" {ER-20}
Chester (PA) - Sophomore Rondae Jefferson - 6'6" {ER-20}
Rice (NY) - Junior Melvin Johnson - 6'3" {ER-20}
Somerville - Senior Steve Garfi - 6'0" {ER-20}
Ridge - Junior Jack Kerwin - 6'4" {ER-20}
Piscataway - Junior Greg Davis - 6'3" {ER-19}
Thomas Jefferson (NY) - Junior Davontay Grace - 6'3" {ER-18}
Union - Senior Chris Foreman - 6'1" {ER-18}
St. Anthony - Junior Jerome Frink - 6'5" {ER-18}
Rice (NY) - Senior Richard Council - 6'6" {ER-18}
Thomas Jefferson (NY) - Senior Eric Turpin - 6'4" {ER-17}
Rice (NY) - Senior Emmanuel Andujar - 6'5" {ER-16}
MSIT (NY) - Senior Brian Hogan Gary - 6'4" {ER-16}
Linden - Senior J.R. Pringley - 6'8" {ER-16}
Somerville - Senior Jake Grady - 6'5" {ER-16}
St. Patrick - Freshman Dakari Johnson - 6'10" {ER-16}
Westfield - Senior J. Greenspan - 6'4" {ER-15}
St. Patrick - Senior Jarrel Lane - 6'1" {ER-15}
Chester (Pa) - Senior Dequann Walker - 6'4" {ER-15}
Union - Junior Marcus Carter - 6'4" {ER-15}
Teaneck - Junior Chris Jones - 6'4" {ER-15}
Governor Livingston - Senior Brendan Dilandro - 6'4" {ER-15}
Elizabeth - Senior Malik Wineglass - 6'7" {ER-15}
Elixabeth - Junior Jamal Harmon - 6'3" {ER-14}
Teaneck - Junior Branden Davis - 6'5" {ER-14}
Teaneck - Junior DeQuan Russ - 6'2" {ER-13}
Chatham - Junior Brendan Damodaran - 6'1" {ER-13}
Union - Senior Chicoziem Ikwuegbu - 6'2" {ER-13}
Plainfield - Senior Vaughn Anderson - 6'3" {ER-13}
Westfield - Senior T. Younger - 6'0" {ER-13}
St. Anthony - Senior Jordan Quick - 6'1" {ER-13}
Plainfield - Junior Chad Lewis - 6'4" {ER-12}
Rahway - Junior JaQuan Matthews - 6'0" {ER-12}
Burlington Twp - Senior Danny Rodriguez - 6'5" {ER-12}
Burlington Twp - Senior Avery Holiday - 6'3" {ER-12}
Union - Senior Nana Ansah - 6'0" {ER-12}
Piscataway - Senior Tajae Sharpe - 6'2" {ER-12}
Westfield - Senior S. Toresco - 6'5" {ER-11}
St Augustine - Sophomore Ryan Buchowski - 6'3" {ER-10}
Rahway - Senior Myron Mayes - 6'3" {ER-9}
Cranford - Sophomore Reginald Green - 6'4" {ER-9}
Cranford - Senior Sean Trotter - 6'0" {ER-9}
Next up - All Efficiency 4th Team...
Friday, April 15, 2011
2010 - 2011 Final Season Summation
What a season!
The Plainfield Cardinals won the elusive state championship! Some critics said it was easier for them since they dropped down to Group 3 but the Cardinal Fanatic says the contrary.
Group 4 was dominated by Linden this year, which was arguably the only other public school in New Jersey that was better (Star Ledger final rankings had the Cardinals #4 and the highest ranked public school). Based on their head to head battles, Linden came out on top 2 of the 3 games. The Cardinal Fanatic would have loved to see a fourth battle. The outcome may have been a little different due to the adjustments that were made by Plainfield. Other than Linden, the Group 4 best was Paterson Eastside, Roncocas Valley and Piscataway. The Cardinals defeated Piscataway by 21 points. Paterson Eastside biggest man was 6’4”, which would have been a problem against the triple towers of the Cardinals. Roncocas Valley may have been a challenge but the Cardinals still would have been too long.
Group 3 on the other hand had the match-ups that would have posed problems for the Cardinals. The game that would have been the biggest challenge was East Side of Newark. But internal issues demised this contending team. Mendham returned many key players from last years Group 3 championship team. But again the length of the Cardinals and the key adjustments that were made by Coach Lubreski and staff proved to be pivotal. Delano Mullings and Vaughn Anderson became key contributors during the playoff run. Mullings and Anderson combined to score the key points in the double overtime victory over Mendham for the Cardinals 3rd consecutive sectional crown. Teaneck had the size and the guard play and was considered the favorites. But again the Cardinals strategic execution proved to be just enough to eek out their 2nd consecutive North Group 3 crown (last year North Group 4 champions). Kingsway who were Group 3 finalist last year would have been another tough one but the length of the Cardinals again would be key. Burlington Twp who upset Kingsway was the surprise of Group 3 team of the year but again, the length of the Cardinals dominated the paint.
So the road to the Group 3 crown was much more difficult than it would have been for the Group 4 crown for this year. For next year Group 3 still will be the toughest group. Newark East Side, Teaneck, and Plainfield all return the main core of their teams. So a return trip to the TOC will be tough. Group 4 lost a ton and may be up for grabs next year. Who knows, maybe Plainfield will get back more students and move back up.
TOC
The Cardinals were not satisfied with just winning the states as they rail roaded their first 2 opponents of the TOC and won by a combine difference of 43 points. This earned them the right to be considered the public schools best team. This also earned the Cards the right to battle the #1 team in the nation, St. Anthony’s of Jersey City in the finals of the Tournament of Champions.
The Cardinals battled admirably. Sekou “Trey Swish” Harris played like he was determined to bring home the Gold. Trailing by only 2 possessions with a 60 seconds remaining in the game, the Cardinals just did not have enough to pull out the victory.
The road to the Championship was not easy as pre-season turmoil dominated the blogs. With the un-timely transfer of 2009-2010 first team all-state player, Tyrone Johnson to Montrose Christian, the critics said the Cardinals would be non-factors for this year.
This team suffered more talented hometown players playing else where than ever before. With Derrick Gordon earning 1st team All-State honors, this Cardinal team had the potential of having 3 – 1st team All-State players on the roster. If this 2010-2011 Cardinal team was the best public school team in the state, what would they have done with Johnson, Gordon, and Miles Davis (Notre Dame Prep – Ma.)? Let’s not forget Jameel Warney (Roselle Catholic) who is arguably the best big man in Union County. This team would be the nations best. But the current roster of Cardinals played without the hometown super-stars. This Cardinal team played for the name in the front of their jerseys. There was one unification concerning the entire team – They played for Plainfield PRIDE!
Thanks Cardinals for putting the “P” back in Plainfield!!
Special thanks to the seniors for making history---
Allen Brown
Delano Mullings
Vaughn Anderson
Crystal Pyne (Team Statistician)
CONGRATS!!!
Next up: Honarable Mention 2010 - 2011 All Efficiency Performances in a Plainfield Game.....
The Plainfield Cardinals won the elusive state championship! Some critics said it was easier for them since they dropped down to Group 3 but the Cardinal Fanatic says the contrary.
Group 4 was dominated by Linden this year, which was arguably the only other public school in New Jersey that was better (Star Ledger final rankings had the Cardinals #4 and the highest ranked public school). Based on their head to head battles, Linden came out on top 2 of the 3 games. The Cardinal Fanatic would have loved to see a fourth battle. The outcome may have been a little different due to the adjustments that were made by Plainfield. Other than Linden, the Group 4 best was Paterson Eastside, Roncocas Valley and Piscataway. The Cardinals defeated Piscataway by 21 points. Paterson Eastside biggest man was 6’4”, which would have been a problem against the triple towers of the Cardinals. Roncocas Valley may have been a challenge but the Cardinals still would have been too long.
Group 3 on the other hand had the match-ups that would have posed problems for the Cardinals. The game that would have been the biggest challenge was East Side of Newark. But internal issues demised this contending team. Mendham returned many key players from last years Group 3 championship team. But again the length of the Cardinals and the key adjustments that were made by Coach Lubreski and staff proved to be pivotal. Delano Mullings and Vaughn Anderson became key contributors during the playoff run. Mullings and Anderson combined to score the key points in the double overtime victory over Mendham for the Cardinals 3rd consecutive sectional crown. Teaneck had the size and the guard play and was considered the favorites. But again the Cardinals strategic execution proved to be just enough to eek out their 2nd consecutive North Group 3 crown (last year North Group 4 champions). Kingsway who were Group 3 finalist last year would have been another tough one but the length of the Cardinals again would be key. Burlington Twp who upset Kingsway was the surprise of Group 3 team of the year but again, the length of the Cardinals dominated the paint.
So the road to the Group 3 crown was much more difficult than it would have been for the Group 4 crown for this year. For next year Group 3 still will be the toughest group. Newark East Side, Teaneck, and Plainfield all return the main core of their teams. So a return trip to the TOC will be tough. Group 4 lost a ton and may be up for grabs next year. Who knows, maybe Plainfield will get back more students and move back up.
TOC
The Cardinals were not satisfied with just winning the states as they rail roaded their first 2 opponents of the TOC and won by a combine difference of 43 points. This earned them the right to be considered the public schools best team. This also earned the Cards the right to battle the #1 team in the nation, St. Anthony’s of Jersey City in the finals of the Tournament of Champions.
The Cardinals battled admirably. Sekou “Trey Swish” Harris played like he was determined to bring home the Gold. Trailing by only 2 possessions with a 60 seconds remaining in the game, the Cardinals just did not have enough to pull out the victory.
The road to the Championship was not easy as pre-season turmoil dominated the blogs. With the un-timely transfer of 2009-2010 first team all-state player, Tyrone Johnson to Montrose Christian, the critics said the Cardinals would be non-factors for this year.
This team suffered more talented hometown players playing else where than ever before. With Derrick Gordon earning 1st team All-State honors, this Cardinal team had the potential of having 3 – 1st team All-State players on the roster. If this 2010-2011 Cardinal team was the best public school team in the state, what would they have done with Johnson, Gordon, and Miles Davis (Notre Dame Prep – Ma.)? Let’s not forget Jameel Warney (Roselle Catholic) who is arguably the best big man in Union County. This team would be the nations best. But the current roster of Cardinals played without the hometown super-stars. This Cardinal team played for the name in the front of their jerseys. There was one unification concerning the entire team – They played for Plainfield PRIDE!
Thanks Cardinals for putting the “P” back in Plainfield!!
Special thanks to the seniors for making history---
Allen Brown
Delano Mullings
Vaughn Anderson
Crystal Pyne (Team Statistician)
CONGRATS!!!
Next up: Honarable Mention 2010 - 2011 All Efficiency Performances in a Plainfield Game.....
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
A Fanatic Summation of the Finals of the Tournament of Champions - #1 St. Anthony's vs #3 Plainfield
Plainfield 49
St. Anthony’s 61
St. Anthony’s scored 18 field goals (which included 3 field goals made to Plainfield’s 0 in the last 60 seconds of the game) below the arc while Plainfield scored 12. This gave St. Anthony’s a 12 point advantage. Plainfield and St. Anthony’s both knocked down 3 3-pointers. Plainfield and St. Anthony’s both knocked down their free throws. Both team connected on 13 free throws thus giving the final difference in the total score of 12 points.
Where did the Cardinals loose this game? The Cardinals played exceptional and to beat the #1 team in the nation, exceptional play plus some was needed. The game plan was perfect but 3 main things came to mind. First the Cardinals learned from the first game that Myles Mack could not be left open. Mack scored 16 points against a tough defensive effort by the Cards. Kyle Anderson was very affective in the 1st half where he dropped 15 of his points. The Cardinals adjusted and limited one of the top junior guards in the country to 2 points in the 2nd half. Jordan Quick came up big by nailing a couple of trey’s which may have been the factor for the Friar’s pulling out the victory. But back to the factors that may have caused the Cardinals defeat in Plainfield’s biggest game in school history. 1) Turnovers; All year this may have been the achilles heel of the Cardinals. When turnovers were held below their average, the Cards would win by double digits. When the turnovers were at their average the Cards would still win due to their rebounding dominance. When their turnovers were above their average, the Cardiac Cards would either loose or win the game in a nail biter. Against the Friars the Cards turned the ball over 19 times which was just a little over their season average. Against the Friars this is a no-no. 2) Miss lay-ups; the Cardinals loss a potential 16 points on at least 8 missed put backs. This was extremely devastating considering the final difference of the game was 12 points. 3) Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan injury in the 2nd period; this was a big blow. Dii’Jon performs at his best in the spotlight against great competition. Dii’Jon seemed to be on his way to another excellent performance before his injury reduced him to below 100% healthy for the remainder of the game. Dii’Jon was the efficiency performer of the game against St. Anthony in their previous meeting. With Sekou Harris playing lights out scoring a game high 19 points and earning TOC MVP honors for Plainfield, Justin controlling the boards, and Jahmal Lane playing great off the bench, Dii’Jon would have been the extra push the Cards needed for the victory.
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) St. Anthony – Junior Kyle Anderson 6’9” {ER-22}
The most sought after junior in the state and a top 10 junior prospect in the nation played an exceptional game on both ends of the floor. Kyle scored a team high 17 points on 56% shooting from below the arc, hit his only 3-point attempt, had 2 steals, grabbed a team high tying 5 rebounds (Jerome Frink & Lucious Jones also with 5 rebounds), dropped a game high 6 assists, and had 1 rejection.
2) St. Anthony – Senior Myles Mack 5’11” {ER-21}
The Rutgers bound sharp shooter has battled against Plainfield since his freshman year when he was at Paterson Catholic. The Cardinals were able to limit Myles to 1 for 3 from beyond the arc, but the speedy guard was able show what Rutgers will get if he plays the point. Mack had a 5-2 assist to turnover ratio against one of the best defensive units in the Tournament of Champions. Mack also scored 16 points on 50% shooting from below the arc and 83% shooting from the charity line. His defensive effort was impressive also as M&M garnished 4 steals and rejected 1 shot.
3) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-19}
Justin gave a much better effort against the Friars the 2nd time around. Sears missed his patented double-double effort by 2 rebounds. Sears shot 60% from the floor to score 10 points. Sears also grabbed 8 rebounds, had 1 steal, and dropped 3 assists.
4) St. Anthony – Junior Jerome Frink 6’5” {ER-18}
Jerome is one of two players on the National High School Championship team that produces below the radar. At 6’5”, Frink plays like a man 6’10”. His strength is beyond a normal high school basketball player and Coach Hurley uses it to his full advantage. Frink had the responsibility of fortifying the paint and neutralizing the Cardinals dominance on the boards. With fundamental boxing out and positioning Frink was able to slow the Cards down on the boards and disrupt multiple lay up attempts which may have been the deciding effort for the Friars to win. Frink scored 12 points on 71% shooting from the floor, grabbed a team high tying 5 rebounds, picked up 3 steals, dropped an assist, and rejected 1 shot.
5) St. Anthony – Senior Lucious Jones 6’7” {ER-16}
Lucious was perfect from below the arc and perfect from the free throw line to score 8 points. Lucious is the perfect compliment to Jerome Frink as the two players combined to slow down the triple towers of the Cardinals. Jones continued his Mr. Efficient role by grabbing a team high 5 rebounds, picking up 3 steals, and dropping 1 assist. Lucky Jones only committed 1 turnover for the entire game to finish off an efficient performance. Jones steady defensive play is the reason why the Friars are #1 in the nation. His lock down defense held the #1 player in the nation, Michael Gilchrist of St. Patrick to a season low 7 points.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
St. Anthony’s 61
St. Anthony’s scored 18 field goals (which included 3 field goals made to Plainfield’s 0 in the last 60 seconds of the game) below the arc while Plainfield scored 12. This gave St. Anthony’s a 12 point advantage. Plainfield and St. Anthony’s both knocked down 3 3-pointers. Plainfield and St. Anthony’s both knocked down their free throws. Both team connected on 13 free throws thus giving the final difference in the total score of 12 points.
Where did the Cardinals loose this game? The Cardinals played exceptional and to beat the #1 team in the nation, exceptional play plus some was needed. The game plan was perfect but 3 main things came to mind. First the Cardinals learned from the first game that Myles Mack could not be left open. Mack scored 16 points against a tough defensive effort by the Cards. Kyle Anderson was very affective in the 1st half where he dropped 15 of his points. The Cardinals adjusted and limited one of the top junior guards in the country to 2 points in the 2nd half. Jordan Quick came up big by nailing a couple of trey’s which may have been the factor for the Friar’s pulling out the victory. But back to the factors that may have caused the Cardinals defeat in Plainfield’s biggest game in school history. 1) Turnovers; All year this may have been the achilles heel of the Cardinals. When turnovers were held below their average, the Cards would win by double digits. When the turnovers were at their average the Cards would still win due to their rebounding dominance. When their turnovers were above their average, the Cardiac Cards would either loose or win the game in a nail biter. Against the Friars the Cards turned the ball over 19 times which was just a little over their season average. Against the Friars this is a no-no. 2) Miss lay-ups; the Cardinals loss a potential 16 points on at least 8 missed put backs. This was extremely devastating considering the final difference of the game was 12 points. 3) Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan injury in the 2nd period; this was a big blow. Dii’Jon performs at his best in the spotlight against great competition. Dii’Jon seemed to be on his way to another excellent performance before his injury reduced him to below 100% healthy for the remainder of the game. Dii’Jon was the efficiency performer of the game against St. Anthony in their previous meeting. With Sekou Harris playing lights out scoring a game high 19 points and earning TOC MVP honors for Plainfield, Justin controlling the boards, and Jahmal Lane playing great off the bench, Dii’Jon would have been the extra push the Cards needed for the victory.
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) St. Anthony – Junior Kyle Anderson 6’9” {ER-22}
The most sought after junior in the state and a top 10 junior prospect in the nation played an exceptional game on both ends of the floor. Kyle scored a team high 17 points on 56% shooting from below the arc, hit his only 3-point attempt, had 2 steals, grabbed a team high tying 5 rebounds (Jerome Frink & Lucious Jones also with 5 rebounds), dropped a game high 6 assists, and had 1 rejection.
2) St. Anthony – Senior Myles Mack 5’11” {ER-21}
The Rutgers bound sharp shooter has battled against Plainfield since his freshman year when he was at Paterson Catholic. The Cardinals were able to limit Myles to 1 for 3 from beyond the arc, but the speedy guard was able show what Rutgers will get if he plays the point. Mack had a 5-2 assist to turnover ratio against one of the best defensive units in the Tournament of Champions. Mack also scored 16 points on 50% shooting from below the arc and 83% shooting from the charity line. His defensive effort was impressive also as M&M garnished 4 steals and rejected 1 shot.
3) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-19}
Justin gave a much better effort against the Friars the 2nd time around. Sears missed his patented double-double effort by 2 rebounds. Sears shot 60% from the floor to score 10 points. Sears also grabbed 8 rebounds, had 1 steal, and dropped 3 assists.
4) St. Anthony – Junior Jerome Frink 6’5” {ER-18}
Jerome is one of two players on the National High School Championship team that produces below the radar. At 6’5”, Frink plays like a man 6’10”. His strength is beyond a normal high school basketball player and Coach Hurley uses it to his full advantage. Frink had the responsibility of fortifying the paint and neutralizing the Cardinals dominance on the boards. With fundamental boxing out and positioning Frink was able to slow the Cards down on the boards and disrupt multiple lay up attempts which may have been the deciding effort for the Friars to win. Frink scored 12 points on 71% shooting from the floor, grabbed a team high tying 5 rebounds, picked up 3 steals, dropped an assist, and rejected 1 shot.
5) St. Anthony – Senior Lucious Jones 6’7” {ER-16}
Lucious was perfect from below the arc and perfect from the free throw line to score 8 points. Lucious is the perfect compliment to Jerome Frink as the two players combined to slow down the triple towers of the Cardinals. Jones continued his Mr. Efficient role by grabbing a team high 5 rebounds, picking up 3 steals, and dropping 1 assist. Lucky Jones only committed 1 turnover for the entire game to finish off an efficient performance. Jones steady defensive play is the reason why the Friars are #1 in the nation. His lock down defense held the #1 player in the nation, Michael Gilchrist of St. Patrick to a season low 7 points.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
A Fanatic Summation of the Semi-Finals of the Tournament of Champions - #2 St. Augustine vs #3 Plainfield
Plainfield 50
St. Augustine 40
Plainfield scored 15 field goals below the arc while St. Augustine scored 8. This gave Plainfield a 14 point advantage. St. Augustine scored 6 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 3 3-pointers. This gave St. Augustine a 9 point advantage in the 3-point category. Plainfield connected on 11 free throws compared to St. Augustine's 6 thus giving the Cardinals a 5 point advantage from the charity stripe and the total difference of 10 points for the game.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? Defense, defense and some more defense. The Cardinals trio of guards, Sekou Harris, Allen Brown, and Delano Mullings stifled one of the best guards out of South Jersey. St. Augustine’s Isaiah Morton shot a dismal 11% below the arc and shot 29% from the 3-point line. Allen Brown used his size advantage to muscle around the 5’8 guard. Mullings and Harris matched Morton speed foot for foot and stayed in his chest all game. If he did get by, Justin “Where’s the Block Party at” Sears was there to block his shot. Speaking of a Block Party, the Cardinal’s decided to throw a party at the beautiful Monmouth University Recreational Center. And the party was jumping with the Cards rejecting 12 shots compared to St. Augustine’s 0. The Cardinals actually won the turnover battle which has been a sore point all season. The Cardinals turned the ball over well below their season average. The Cardinals turned the ball over 11 times compared to #2 seed’s 20. The Card’s distributed the ball well as Sekou “Trey Swish” Harris led the game with his gift giving with 6 assists.
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-20}
Although Justin only scored 4 points his other contributions were big. The efficiency rating is not based on points scored alone but also on other contributions that is needed to win. Sears demonstrated that with his 6 rebounds, 3 steals, and game high 9 rejections. Sears also only committed 1 turnover. To show Sears value in this game, his 9 rejections turned away a possible 18 points.
2) Plainfield – Junior Jahmal Lane 6’3” {ER-17}
Lane consistent pressure of driving to the basket sparked the Cardinals in what may be their biggest victory in school history. Lane sparked a lack luster outside shooting exhibition by taken the ball to the rim. Lane scored 12 points on 71% shooting below the arc. Lane also grabbed 6 rebounds, dropped 3 assists, and picked up a game high 5 steals.
3) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-15}
Dii’Jon “The Dunk Master” Allen-Jordan continues to make people ask in the arena, “Who is this guy?” Dii’Jon high flying act is now on notice as the fans rise to their seats to get a glimpse of his sky walking dunks! Dii’Jon spectacular slam dunk on Brandon Slotoroff (a top defender) of St. Augustine was photo'ed by the Star Ledger. But as stated in previous blog’s his game is not about dunks. The 6’6” junior swing man is becoming an outside threat and the Cardinal Fanatic is holding on to his beak to see what his game will transform into for next year. Dii’Jon scored a game high 13 points and grabbed a game high tying 9 rebounds (St. Augustine’s Austin Johnson also with 9 rebounds). Dii’Jon completed his stat line by dropping 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 rejection.
4) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-12}
To score 2 points and still make the efficiency 5 says a lot of Denzel. Denzel did all the things that do not show up in the stat book. While Justin Sears was rejecting shots from his side of the paint, Denzel altered and disrupted multiple plays on the other side of the paint. Early foul trouble did not stop the aggressive play of Christian as he grabbed 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and rejected 2 shots. Denzel efficiency was proven in the fact he did not turn the ball over for the entire game.
5) St. Augustine Prep – Sophomore Ryan Buchowski 6’3” {ER-10}
Ryan played the most efficiently for the Hermits of St. Augustine Prep. Ryan was perfect from the field. This was a much needed help since St. Augustine only shot less than 30% from the field. Ryan also grabbed 4 rebounds and did not commit a turnover for the entire game.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
St. Augustine 40
Plainfield scored 15 field goals below the arc while St. Augustine scored 8. This gave Plainfield a 14 point advantage. St. Augustine scored 6 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 3 3-pointers. This gave St. Augustine a 9 point advantage in the 3-point category. Plainfield connected on 11 free throws compared to St. Augustine's 6 thus giving the Cardinals a 5 point advantage from the charity stripe and the total difference of 10 points for the game.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? Defense, defense and some more defense. The Cardinals trio of guards, Sekou Harris, Allen Brown, and Delano Mullings stifled one of the best guards out of South Jersey. St. Augustine’s Isaiah Morton shot a dismal 11% below the arc and shot 29% from the 3-point line. Allen Brown used his size advantage to muscle around the 5’8 guard. Mullings and Harris matched Morton speed foot for foot and stayed in his chest all game. If he did get by, Justin “Where’s the Block Party at” Sears was there to block his shot. Speaking of a Block Party, the Cardinal’s decided to throw a party at the beautiful Monmouth University Recreational Center. And the party was jumping with the Cards rejecting 12 shots compared to St. Augustine’s 0. The Cardinals actually won the turnover battle which has been a sore point all season. The Cardinals turned the ball over well below their season average. The Cardinals turned the ball over 11 times compared to #2 seed’s 20. The Card’s distributed the ball well as Sekou “Trey Swish” Harris led the game with his gift giving with 6 assists.
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-20}
Although Justin only scored 4 points his other contributions were big. The efficiency rating is not based on points scored alone but also on other contributions that is needed to win. Sears demonstrated that with his 6 rebounds, 3 steals, and game high 9 rejections. Sears also only committed 1 turnover. To show Sears value in this game, his 9 rejections turned away a possible 18 points.
2) Plainfield – Junior Jahmal Lane 6’3” {ER-17}
Lane consistent pressure of driving to the basket sparked the Cardinals in what may be their biggest victory in school history. Lane sparked a lack luster outside shooting exhibition by taken the ball to the rim. Lane scored 12 points on 71% shooting below the arc. Lane also grabbed 6 rebounds, dropped 3 assists, and picked up a game high 5 steals.
3) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-15}
Dii’Jon “The Dunk Master” Allen-Jordan continues to make people ask in the arena, “Who is this guy?” Dii’Jon high flying act is now on notice as the fans rise to their seats to get a glimpse of his sky walking dunks! Dii’Jon spectacular slam dunk on Brandon Slotoroff (a top defender) of St. Augustine was photo'ed by the Star Ledger. But as stated in previous blog’s his game is not about dunks. The 6’6” junior swing man is becoming an outside threat and the Cardinal Fanatic is holding on to his beak to see what his game will transform into for next year. Dii’Jon scored a game high 13 points and grabbed a game high tying 9 rebounds (St. Augustine’s Austin Johnson also with 9 rebounds). Dii’Jon completed his stat line by dropping 2 assists, 1 steal, and 1 rejection.
4) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-12}
To score 2 points and still make the efficiency 5 says a lot of Denzel. Denzel did all the things that do not show up in the stat book. While Justin Sears was rejecting shots from his side of the paint, Denzel altered and disrupted multiple plays on the other side of the paint. Early foul trouble did not stop the aggressive play of Christian as he grabbed 5 rebounds, 1 assist, and rejected 2 shots. Denzel efficiency was proven in the fact he did not turn the ball over for the entire game.
5) St. Augustine Prep – Sophomore Ryan Buchowski 6’3” {ER-10}
Ryan played the most efficiently for the Hermits of St. Augustine Prep. Ryan was perfect from the field. This was a much needed help since St. Augustine only shot less than 30% from the field. Ryan also grabbed 4 rebounds and did not commit a turnover for the entire game.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
A Fanatic Summation of the 1st Round of the Tournament of Champions - #3 Plainfield vs #6 Asbury Park
Asbury Park 35
Plainfield 68
Plainfield scored 30 field goals below the arc while Asbury Park scored 11. This gave Plainfield a 38 point advantage. Asbury Park scored 3 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 1 3-pointer. This gave Asbury Park a 6 point advantage in the 3-point category which narrowed the Cardinal point advantage to 32 points. Plainfield connected on 5 free throws compared to Asbury Park’s 4 thus giving the Cardinals a 1 point advantage from the charity stripe and the total difference of 33 points for the game.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? The Cardinals defensive efforts have been improving as the season progresses. The defensive effort of Delano Mullings was crucial for the Group 3 state championship and continues to pay big dividends. Plainfield continues to force teams to shoot from the perimeter. Combine the interior defense of Denzel Christian, Justin Sears, and Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan (44 rebounds for the Cardinals compared to 17 rebounds for the Bishops of Asbury Park) with the on the ball harassing defense of Mullings, Allen Brown, and Sekou Harris, the Cardinals continue to limit offensive sets and opportunities of their opponents. The Red Birds continue to work the ball in the paint on the offensive end. This was evident in the perimeter shot attempts. Asbury Park took 20 3-point shot attempts compared to the Cardinals 6. The biggest advantage in this game was in the paint. Jahmal Lane provided the spark off the bench by penetrating the quick handed defense of Asbury Park to drop 12 points on nifty drives along with 6 rebounds. Of the 55 shot attempts made by the Cardinals, 49 of them were from below the arc. The Cardinals made 61% of those attempts
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-23}
The sophomore continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Denzel scored 8 points (just missed a double-double performance by one field goal) from the floor at a 75% clip. Denzel controlled the glass with 13 rebounds. Denzel committed only 1 turnover for the entire game.
2) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-22}
Sears also missed a double-double by one field goal as he dropped 8 points. Sears controlled the glass by grabbing a game high 14 rebounds, picked up a game high 4 steals, and rejected a game high 2 shots. Sears committed only 1 turnover for the entire game
3) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-19}
Dii’Jon “Dunkadelic” Allen-Jordan continues to strive for Rock Star Status. His high flying act has the crowd up on their feet on every fast break. Allen-Jordan continues to extend his total basketball repertoire on both ends of the floor. Dr. Dunkadelic dropped 11 points on a very efficient 83% shooting from the floor. Dii’Jon added to his stat line by grabbing 4 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 assists and 1 rejection. His stat line should have been even more impressive but his over aggressive defensive efforts put him on the bench with foul troubles. By the way Allen-Jordan only committed 1 turnover for the entire game.
4) Plainfield – Junior Chad Lewis 6’4” {ER-11}
The football standout came in to finish off the job. Chad controlled the boards and was perfect from the floor in a short period of time. But his efforts actually helped the Cardinals increase the lead. The 220 lb tight end scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds to tighten up any loose ends.
5) Plainfield – Junior Sekou Harris 6’0” {ER-9}
Sekou “Trey Swish” finished off a sweep for the Cardinals in the efficiency department. The sharp shooting guard scored a team high 13 points on 75% shooting from below the arc. Sekou also dropped a team high tying 3 assists (Delano Mullings also with 3 assists).
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Plainfield 68
Plainfield scored 30 field goals below the arc while Asbury Park scored 11. This gave Plainfield a 38 point advantage. Asbury Park scored 3 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 1 3-pointer. This gave Asbury Park a 6 point advantage in the 3-point category which narrowed the Cardinal point advantage to 32 points. Plainfield connected on 5 free throws compared to Asbury Park’s 4 thus giving the Cardinals a 1 point advantage from the charity stripe and the total difference of 33 points for the game.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? The Cardinals defensive efforts have been improving as the season progresses. The defensive effort of Delano Mullings was crucial for the Group 3 state championship and continues to pay big dividends. Plainfield continues to force teams to shoot from the perimeter. Combine the interior defense of Denzel Christian, Justin Sears, and Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan (44 rebounds for the Cardinals compared to 17 rebounds for the Bishops of Asbury Park) with the on the ball harassing defense of Mullings, Allen Brown, and Sekou Harris, the Cardinals continue to limit offensive sets and opportunities of their opponents. The Red Birds continue to work the ball in the paint on the offensive end. This was evident in the perimeter shot attempts. Asbury Park took 20 3-point shot attempts compared to the Cardinals 6. The biggest advantage in this game was in the paint. Jahmal Lane provided the spark off the bench by penetrating the quick handed defense of Asbury Park to drop 12 points on nifty drives along with 6 rebounds. Of the 55 shot attempts made by the Cardinals, 49 of them were from below the arc. The Cardinals made 61% of those attempts
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Sophomore Denzel Christian 6’6” {ER-23}
The sophomore continues to grow by leaps and bounds. Denzel scored 8 points (just missed a double-double performance by one field goal) from the floor at a 75% clip. Denzel controlled the glass with 13 rebounds. Denzel committed only 1 turnover for the entire game.
2) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-22}
Sears also missed a double-double by one field goal as he dropped 8 points. Sears controlled the glass by grabbing a game high 14 rebounds, picked up a game high 4 steals, and rejected a game high 2 shots. Sears committed only 1 turnover for the entire game
3) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-19}
Dii’Jon “Dunkadelic” Allen-Jordan continues to strive for Rock Star Status. His high flying act has the crowd up on their feet on every fast break. Allen-Jordan continues to extend his total basketball repertoire on both ends of the floor. Dr. Dunkadelic dropped 11 points on a very efficient 83% shooting from the floor. Dii’Jon added to his stat line by grabbing 4 rebounds, 3 steals, 2 assists and 1 rejection. His stat line should have been even more impressive but his over aggressive defensive efforts put him on the bench with foul troubles. By the way Allen-Jordan only committed 1 turnover for the entire game.
4) Plainfield – Junior Chad Lewis 6’4” {ER-11}
The football standout came in to finish off the job. Chad controlled the boards and was perfect from the floor in a short period of time. But his efforts actually helped the Cardinals increase the lead. The 220 lb tight end scored 6 points and grabbed 4 rebounds to tighten up any loose ends.
5) Plainfield – Junior Sekou Harris 6’0” {ER-9}
Sekou “Trey Swish” finished off a sweep for the Cardinals in the efficiency department. The sharp shooting guard scored a team high 13 points on 75% shooting from below the arc. Sekou also dropped a team high tying 3 assists (Delano Mullings also with 3 assists).
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Monday, April 4, 2011
A Fanatic Summation of the Group 3 State Championship - Plainfield vs Burlington Township
Burlington Twp. 48
Plainfield 57
Plainfield scored 17 field goals below the arc while Burlington Township scored 12. This gave Plainfield a 10 point advantage. Burlington Township made up some ground by connecting on 6 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 3. This gave Burlington a 9 point advantage in the 3-point category. This narrowed the field goal comparison from the field to a 1-point advantage for the Cardinals. The Cardinals were able to win the free throw comparison. Plainfield connected on 14 free throws compared to 6 free throws made for Burlington. This gave the Cardinals an 8 point advantage from the charity line and tallied up the final difference of the game of 9 points.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? The Cards won this game on rebounds, interior paint defense, zone defense and getting to the basket on the offensive end for the 2nd consecutive game. The Cardinals grabbed 38 rebounds compared to Burlington Twp 30. The triple towers of Justin Sears, Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan, and Denzel Christian combined to grab 30 rebounds. Multiple offensive rebounds gave the Cardinals 2nd opportunities to score. On the defensive side, the rebounding battle limited Burlington Township to 1 field goal attempt each time down court. Again the Cardinals had another game with double digit rejections (12). This turned away a potential 24 points for Burlington. The zone defense forced Burlington Township to a perimeter game. Burlington was having some success nailing the deep shot, but the Cardinals adjusted by putting Dii’Jon out on top of zone defense and then matched him up with the hot shooting Danny Rodriguez. Rodriquez was limited in the final period while Sears and Christian controlled the paint. Burlington lived on the perimeter which proved to be costly. Burlington shot a sizzling 86% from the free throw line but only took 7 attempts. The Cardinals took more than 3 times as many free throws which help the Cardinals ultimately win the game.
CONGRATS – PLAINFIELD 2011 STATE GROUP 3 CHAMPIONS!!!!
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-32}
After a sub-par performance for Sears’s standards, Justin returned with determination to help the Cardinals win their first state championship in 28 years. Sears gave one of his patented double-double performances as Justin scored 16 points and grabbed a game high 17 rebounds of which 11 were offensive rebounds. Sears shot an impressive 80% from the free throw line to lead the Cardinals on the charity line. Sears also picked up 2 steals, dropped 1 assist, and rejected a game high 5 shots.
2) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-18}
Dii’Jon continues to have an excellent playoff run by displaying the total repertoire of his game on both the defensive and offensive end of the floor. Dii’Jon scored 12 points, had a team high tying 3 steals (Delano Mullings also with 3 steals), grabbed 7 rebounds, dropped 2 assists, and rejected 3 shots. Dii’Jon completed a very efficient day by only committing 1 turnover for the entire game.
3) Plainfield – Junior Sekou Harris 6’0” {ER-14}
Sekou is continuing the long legacy of outstanding guards out of the queen city. The smooth shooting Curly Neal like dribbling guard is making recruiting experts take a closer look at Harris. Sekou dropped a game high 21 points shooting a blazing 71% from below the arc. The off season work outs has improved his leaping ability as the 6’0” guard also grabbed 4 rebounds to help the big men on the boards. Sekou finished the day by grabbing MVP honors.
4) Burlington Township – Senior Danny Rodriguez 6’5” {ER-12}
Danny also earned MVP honors for Burlington Township by dropping a team high 17 points. His high arching jump shots impressed the 5,000 fans in attendance. The 6’5” sharp shooter also grabbed 4 rebounds and rejected a team high 2 shots
5) Burlington Township – Senior Avery Holiday 6’3” {ER-12}
Holiday just missed getting a double-double. Avery shot 50% from the field to score 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to have Burlington on the edge of pulling out the victory.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
Plainfield 57
Plainfield scored 17 field goals below the arc while Burlington Township scored 12. This gave Plainfield a 10 point advantage. Burlington Township made up some ground by connecting on 6 3-pointers compared to Plainfield’s 3. This gave Burlington a 9 point advantage in the 3-point category. This narrowed the field goal comparison from the field to a 1-point advantage for the Cardinals. The Cardinals were able to win the free throw comparison. Plainfield connected on 14 free throws compared to 6 free throws made for Burlington. This gave the Cardinals an 8 point advantage from the charity line and tallied up the final difference of the game of 9 points.
Where did the Cardinals win this game? The Cards won this game on rebounds, interior paint defense, zone defense and getting to the basket on the offensive end for the 2nd consecutive game. The Cardinals grabbed 38 rebounds compared to Burlington Twp 30. The triple towers of Justin Sears, Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan, and Denzel Christian combined to grab 30 rebounds. Multiple offensive rebounds gave the Cardinals 2nd opportunities to score. On the defensive side, the rebounding battle limited Burlington Township to 1 field goal attempt each time down court. Again the Cardinals had another game with double digit rejections (12). This turned away a potential 24 points for Burlington. The zone defense forced Burlington Township to a perimeter game. Burlington was having some success nailing the deep shot, but the Cardinals adjusted by putting Dii’Jon out on top of zone defense and then matched him up with the hot shooting Danny Rodriguez. Rodriquez was limited in the final period while Sears and Christian controlled the paint. Burlington lived on the perimeter which proved to be costly. Burlington shot a sizzling 86% from the free throw line but only took 7 attempts. The Cardinals took more than 3 times as many free throws which help the Cardinals ultimately win the game.
CONGRATS – PLAINFIELD 2011 STATE GROUP 3 CHAMPIONS!!!!
Cardinal Fanatic Efficient 5
1) Plainfield – Junior Justin Sears 6’8” {ER-32}
After a sub-par performance for Sears’s standards, Justin returned with determination to help the Cardinals win their first state championship in 28 years. Sears gave one of his patented double-double performances as Justin scored 16 points and grabbed a game high 17 rebounds of which 11 were offensive rebounds. Sears shot an impressive 80% from the free throw line to lead the Cardinals on the charity line. Sears also picked up 2 steals, dropped 1 assist, and rejected a game high 5 shots.
2) Plainfield – Junior Dii’Jon Allen-Jordan 6’6” {ER-18}
Dii’Jon continues to have an excellent playoff run by displaying the total repertoire of his game on both the defensive and offensive end of the floor. Dii’Jon scored 12 points, had a team high tying 3 steals (Delano Mullings also with 3 steals), grabbed 7 rebounds, dropped 2 assists, and rejected 3 shots. Dii’Jon completed a very efficient day by only committing 1 turnover for the entire game.
3) Plainfield – Junior Sekou Harris 6’0” {ER-14}
Sekou is continuing the long legacy of outstanding guards out of the queen city. The smooth shooting Curly Neal like dribbling guard is making recruiting experts take a closer look at Harris. Sekou dropped a game high 21 points shooting a blazing 71% from below the arc. The off season work outs has improved his leaping ability as the 6’0” guard also grabbed 4 rebounds to help the big men on the boards. Sekou finished the day by grabbing MVP honors.
4) Burlington Township – Senior Danny Rodriguez 6’5” {ER-12}
Danny also earned MVP honors for Burlington Township by dropping a team high 17 points. His high arching jump shots impressed the 5,000 fans in attendance. The 6’5” sharp shooter also grabbed 4 rebounds and rejected a team high 2 shots
5) Burlington Township – Senior Avery Holiday 6’3” {ER-12}
Holiday just missed getting a double-double. Avery shot 50% from the field to score 7 points and grabbed 7 rebounds to have Burlington on the edge of pulling out the victory.
The efficiency rating is base on points scored, shooting accuracy, foul shooting accuracy, rebounds, assists, steals, defensive intensity, and assist – turnover ratio.
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