America's Largest Catholic Newspaper
The Archbishop Stepinac High School boys’ basketball team captured its first New York State Federation Class AA championship with an 88-76 victory over PSAL champ South Shore in Glens Falls March 24.
“It is an unbelievable feeling for our kids, coaches and the Stepinac community. A special year and a special group that proved to be the best team in New York state this season,” Stepinac head coach Patrick Massaroni told CNY.
Tournament most valuable player Alan Griffin collected 28 points, 16 rebounds, three assists and three steals for the CHSAA champion Crusaders (27-5 overall), who shot 14 for 26 from three-point range. The 14 3-point field goals are a Federation tournament game record.
RJ Davis contributed 25 points, seven rebounds and two assists for the Crusaders, who also received 16 points and four rebounds from Adrian Griffin Jr.
Davis and Griffin earned spots on the all-tournament team.
“I thought it was, right from the start, the guys being unselfish,” Massaroni said. “South Shore is very athletic and aggressive. I thought we handled the pressure early and were able to get open looks and converted.”
Stepinac advanced to the final with a 76-72 semifinal victory over Long Island Lutheran, which was ranked ninth in the nation entering the game by USA Today.
