Kennedy survives P.C.T. 50-49

The object of the state playoffs is to survive and advance. Kennedy Highschool did just that as they overcame a 4 point deficit with 42 seconds left to get by Passaic County Tech 50-49 and again meet their crosstown rival Eastside highschool in the quarterfinals of the Group 4 state sectionals. Dwan Lighty’s free throw with 3 seconds left clinched the game for the Knights after a steal. Davian Plunkett(21pts,20rebs,5blks)) was a man among boys as he constantly made big plays, including a big follow up late to tie the game at 49.and a block shot to end it. His front court mate, Laquan Peterkin chipped in 12 points and 6 rebounds. Tech was led by senior big man Franklin Reynoso, who probably played his best game of the year scoring 15 points with 10 rebounds and 7 block shots and Asmar Edwards who contributed 14 points, 5 boards and 4 steals.

Eastside defeats Ridgewood H.S. 69-50

Karon Abraham, Antoine Alexander and Bryant Lewis combined for 48 points as Eastside led by as much as 25 points to cruise past Ridgewood Highschool and reach the quarterfinals against Kennedy highschool. Alexander(16pts) hit four three pointers in the first half and Abraham(18pts.) added two more as Paterson’s oldest rivalry will continue with the winner moving on and the loser going home. Eastside won the first meeting between the two teams 63-62.