North Babylon repeats
BY ADAM RONIS
North Babylon coach Mike Petre raves often about his defense. Against Sachem East in the Suffolk Class AA championship, you could see why. Sachem East led 19-12 after the first quarter, but North Babylon used a 20-4 second quarter to take a 32-23 halftime lead it never relinquished in a 63-54 win.
It could have been worse had Sachem East not hit eight three-pointers. Junior Eugeneia McPherson (33 points) and sophomore Bria Hartley (20 points) carried the offensive load again. But the rest of the players played terrific defense. Caitlin Fifield hit a three-pointer to open the third quarter to give NB a 35-23 lead and another later in the quarter to make it 42-29.
LaToya Miller hit a big jumper off the glass to make it 57-49 with under three minutes left in the game. But it was mostly McPherson and Hartley for the second straight game, a formula that has worked all season.
“We all wanted to practice tomorrow,” McPherson said.
Said Petre: “I’m so proud of this team. It’s amazing to get back and win it after losing the best player on Long Island.”
The second quarter proved to be the difference.
“We didn’t change anything,” Petre said. “We stuck with out man-to-man full court. We just played a little harder.
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Comments (1)
Coach Petre, you have no class whatsoever. How about complimenting a fine Sachem East team, ranked 3rd in the state, for their fine players and their effort? Do you ever win with class?
And this comment..."It’s amazing to get back and win it after losing the best player on Long Island.” I suppose you forgot that Sammy Prahalis was player of the year in Suffolk last year and All America this year. You failed to compliment her and Commack's effort when you beat them. Some coaches are disgraceful and NOT good examples for young children. Good job Petre!!!