A Close Shave and a Senior Send-Off: Staten Island's Hoops Highlights

Boys' Basketball Falls Short in ACIS Championship

The Staten Island Academy boys' basketball team put up a valiant effort but ultimately fell to Dwight School by three points in the ACIS Championship. The Tigers, seeded second, faced a tough challenge, especially after trailing by 14 points in the second half.

Key Moments:

• The Tigers staged a remarkable comeback, taking the lead in the final minutes.
• Dwight School made crucial plays to secure the win.
• Gabe Moschella led the team with 23 points.
• Danny Nowak added 15 points, while Luke DeVito scored 11 points, including his 1,000th career point.

Game Recap:

• The Tigers started slowly, with Dwight's long-range shots giving them an early lead.
• By halftime, the Tigers cut the deficit to just four points.
• Coach Mike Mazella noted the team's tendency to start slow, which proved costly.
• In the third quarter, the Tigers mounted another comeback, with DeVito reaching a significant milestone.

Season Outlook:

• Despite the loss, the Tigers finished the season with a strong record of 20-5 overall and 13-4 in the ACIS.
• They now await word on whether they'll secure a spot in the NYSAIS postseason tournament.

Girls' Basketball Celebrates Seniors with a Dominant Win

On Senior Night, the Notre Dame Academy girls' basketball team celebrated their seniors in style, defeating Petrides by 29 points.

Key Performances:

• All five seniors played the entire game and contributed to the scoreboard.
• Emma Blomquist led with 15 points.
• Caroline Kasagrande added 10 points.
• Ava Manzella, Addison Marrocco, and Gianna Montagna each scored nine points.
• Coach Bobby DellaValle praised the seniors for their unity and dedication throughout their high school careers.

Petrides' Effort:

• Mackenzie Terry put up a strong effort with 12 points in her final regular-season game.
• The Gators finished the regular season with a record of 12-9.
• They now prepare for the Archdiocese playoffs against St. Joseph Hill, with the date and time to be determined.