The Archbishop Carroll Patriots sped past the Speedboys of West Philadephia on Thursday night by a final score of 60-49. Now the Pats move on to the boys basketball state playoffs.
The Patriots came into last night’s matchup without multiple key players including Christian Matos, Drew Corrao, and Yasir Turner. The Patriots had to execute under an 8-man rotation, losing players either due to injury or because of the PIAA transfer rule that limits players like Christian Matos from playing in state games during their first year at a new school. This riddled-down lineup meant more opportunities for younger players like Ceasar Richardson. Richardson’s elite play on the glass proved why he was a great pick for this elevated role.
“Coach Bowe trusts me,” said Richardson. “I do whatever it takes to win. I’m always for the team.”
The Patriots got a hot start in the first quarter, led by star Luca Foster, who launched a pair of slam dunks. The Patriots would go on to abuse West Philly’s one weakness the entire game: their discipline. West Philly saw multiple players sit down in the first quarter because of foul trouble. Carroll had all of the opportunities to dominate, and the boys did. Another huge piece for Carroll was Nasir Ralls, who tallied six points in the first half. Carroll was able to use these West Philly disadvantages to jump out to a 18-13 lead.
The Patriots came out for the second quarter energized and confident after a pep talk from head coach Francis Bowe. The Patriots continued to abuse the weaknesses of the Speedboys and West Philly was forced to burn a timeout midway through the second following a Foster posterizer. Unfortuantely, the Patriots began to fumble under the pressure toward the end of the second quarter and the Speedboys cut the Patriot lead to only six before the halftime buzzer sounded.
The Patriots came back out for the second half and the Foster continued his show, piling on points and pulling down rebounds. Foster came into the game already in the headlines for signing with a major sports agency, and he continued to show why that was not a mistake on their part.
“It felt good to be back on the court,” said Foster. “I feel really good. I’m excited to see what’s coming.”
The Patriots continued their third quarter run in control, but Munir Greig was the real star. Greig, who already had a handful of rebounds, was able to get to the basket at a high pace and finish on his defenders at a high rate. The Patriots were able to extend their lead heading into the fourth quarter to 48-39.
The Patriots started the fourth quarter like the rest; strong defense and high-paced offense propelled Carroll. Carroll was holding on but started to crumble with less than three minutes left, making dumb mistakes that cost them multiple points. Carroll was able to hold on and close things out, thanks to the efforts of Foster and Greig. Foster had 21 points, seven assists, and four rebounds. Greig 18 points, seven assists, and 11 rebounds. Ceasar Richardson also contributed with seven rebounds.
Carroll’s victory ends the debate in the region’s high school basketball world surrounding the status of Bowe, who was relieved his team was able to get it done.
“They”re listening to the message,” Bowe said. “They”re buying into the culture.”
Carroll boys basketball will be back next Friday, March 7, against Bishop Shanahan in a state playoff matchup.