In a sports media landscape dominated by conventional narratives and mainstream perspectives, the emergence of Cameron Giles and Mason Bethea’s sports talk show “It Is What It Is” marks a pivotal moment in media representation. Their unapologetically Black platform has provided a voice to urban communities, offering authentic analysis and commentary on professional and collegiate sports. Moreover, their decision to reintroduce the great Heisman winner and Hall of Fame running back O.J. Simpson as a football analyst on a national media platform was a commendable act of inclusivity and fairness.
Cameron Giles, “It Is What It Is”
Plainly stated, Cam and Mase are some “real niggas.”
Firstly, it’s crucial to acknowledge the significance of Cameron Giles, better known as Cam’ron, and Mason Bethea, known as Mase, in reshaping the media landscape. Through “It Is What It Is,” they have shattered stereotypes and provided a space for genuine dialogue, reflecting the diverse perspectives within the Black community. By addressing sports from an urban Black male perspective, they have filled a void in the media that was long overdue for recognition. Their decision to hire O.J. Simpson as a professional football analyst on their platform is particularly noteworthy. Despite Simpson’s controversial past, including his acquittal of all charges related to the deaths of his ex-wife Nicole Brown Simpson and her friend Ron Goldman, he remains a figure of interest and relevance in the sports world. However, mainstream media outlets had long ostracized Simpson, effectively silencing his voice.
Mason Bethea, “It Is What It Is”
The white controlled media totally discarded the Juice… They didn’t fuck with him at all.
Giles and Bethea’s willingness to challenge this status quo and provide Simpson with a platform to share his insights demonstrates an honorable commitment to fairness and inclusivity. In doing so, they have acknowledged the complexities of Simpson’s legacy while affirming his right to participate in public discourse. By offering viewers an uncensored and unfiltered perspective, “It Is What It Is” continues to push boundaries and redefine norms in sports media.
Moreover, the decision to feature Simpson aligns with the ethos of their show, which prioritizes authenticity and honesty above all else. Urban Black males, a demographic often marginalized in mainstream media, have historically maintained a connection with Simpson that transcends his controversial past. By recognizing this connection and embracing Simpson as a contributor, Giles and Bethea have reaffirmed their commitment to representing the diverse experiences within their community.
In conclusion, Cameron Giles and Mason Bethea’s “It Is What It Is” serves as a beacon of inclusion and authenticity in the media landscape. By providing a platform for unfiltered dialogue and diverse perspectives, they have challenged conventional narratives and empowered marginalized communities. Their decision to reintroduce O.J. Simpson as a football analyst reflects their commitment to fairness and inclusivity, while also acknowledging the complexities of his legacy. As we celebrate their contributions to sports media, we must also recognize the broader impact of their work in promoting diversity and representation.
Join us on the Black Cager Sports Talk Show as we delve into the electrifying journey of Ahmad Nowell, the shining star of Philadelphia’s scholastic basketball scene. Fresh off his stellar career at Imhotep Charter and committed to UCONN, Nowell sits down for an exclusive interview alongside his mentor Tasheed Carr, only on Black Cager Sports.
Ahmad Nowell isn’t just another high school phenom; he’s a symbol of resilience and determination. With an impressive three consecutive Public League, District 12, and PIAA State Championships, Nowell’s name is etched in the history books of Philadelphia high school basketball. But his success isn’t merely a result of talent—it’s a testament to his relentless dedication and hunger for excellence. Under the mentorship of Tasheed Carr, Nowell has honed his skills to perfection. For over six years, they’ve embarked on a journey of relentless pursuit, setting Nowell apart from his competitors. Nowell’s rise to prominence isn’t just about the roar of the crowd or championship rings—it’s about unwavering determination and an unparalleled work ethic.
But what sets Nowell apart on the court? He’s not just an athletic point guard; he’s a strategic mastermind with impeccable scoring instincts. With the physique of an SEC safety and the craftiness of a seasoned ballhandler, Nowell dominates on both ends of the court. His ability to finish with finesse around the basket, coupled with his deadly midrange game, makes him a force to be reckoned with. But it’s not just about what Nowell does on the court; it’s about his character and leadership off it. He’s a team player with exceptional court vision, and his defensive prowess is second to none. Nowell isn’t just chasing greatness on the court; he’s embodying it in every aspect of his life.
Join us on the Black Cager Sports Talk Show as Nowell and Carr share their journey to success. Discover how hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence have propelled Nowell to the brink of greatness. Don’t miss out on this exclusive interview—tune in and witness the story behind the legend!
Sponsored by Philadelphia Youth Basketball and Next Step Vocational Services.
Suspend logic for a moment… Imagine… somehow, someway… In the heart of Camden, where basketball is akin to religion, a peculiar and remarkable event unfolded, intertwining the spirits and DNA of the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship Game held annually at the Palestra with the soulful HBCU clashes between Lincoln University and Cheyney University. After a few drinks at Victor’s Pub on the Camden waterfront, they are feeling one another and decide to take the short stroll over to the Hilton Garden Inn. A serendipitous encounter, fueled by the convivial atmosphere and seemingly endless libations culminated, 9 months later, in the birth of what would become the Camden City Middle School Basketball Championship.
I had no idea… Seriously… I had not a fuckin’ clue…
For local hoopheads, this is a bucket list event.
While recent discussions lamented the tepid support for the Philadelphia Public League High School basketball playoffs, the Camden Middle School Championship garnered fervent community backing, evoking echoes of tradition and festivity reminiscent of the hallowed Catholic League tournament games of grounds of the fabled Palestra. Although on a much smaller scale, the same sense of tradition and pageantry that surrounds the Catholic League Finals at the Palestra permeated the Camden Eastside Gymnasium.
Shit was intense. As it should be…
Antoine Miller, KIPP Cooper Norcross Head Coach
The City of Camden, the actual “day to day” home of the Philadelphia 76ers, has three very strong scholastic boys basketball programs. KIPP Cooper Norcross Academy, led by Head Coach Antoine Miller, reached the NJSIAA South Jersey Group 1 championship game. National power, Camden High, led by Maalik Wayns, will play in the Group 2 State Championship game after “kinda, sorta, sumthin-like” defeating (but to really beating) Manasquan in a highly controversial semifinal contest. Camden Eastside, under the direction of Head Coach Kenny Avent, fell to Ocean City in a NJSIAA Group 3 semifinal matchup.
These esteemed high school coaches, stationed in along the baselines in separate corners of the gym, bore witness to a spectacle brimming with intensity and promise.
While the tradition and pageantry of the Camden Middle School Championship game is similar to that of the Philadelphia Catholic League Championship, the culture is decidedly Black. Amidst the echoes of cheers and the scent of sweat, there lingered a distinct cultural resonance. I kept waiting for the Kappas and Ques to emerge and start stepping on the sideline. The essence of the game reverberated with shades of epic HBCU Lincoln/Cheyney and Morgan/Coppin showdowns.
Mayor Vic Castarphen, a highly regarded former Camden High and Temple University PG sat midcourt with Arthur Barclay a former Camden High and Memphis University PF. Aaron Walton-Moss, a Panther legend and 3-time small college All-American at Cabrini came to witness the youngbuls battling for the chip.
These luminaries came to watch a new generation of Camden hoop talent emerge, eager to etch their names into the annals of Camden basketball lore. Guiding the proceedings with a deft hand was Woodrow Wilson standout Nelly Perry, who played for Dawn Staley at South Carolina after three years at Clemson.
Nelly Perry, Camden Public Schools and Delgreco Wilson, Black Cager Sports
I take great pride in seeing Perry provide such a platform for young middle school students. As a high school junior, Perry and I spent somewhere between 30-40 hours in my office along with Temple great Alliya Butts preparing for their transition from high school to college. Today she coaches and helps middle school student-athletes make the difficult jump too high school.
A full circle moment… #bigGIRLbasketball.
And in a testament to generational continuity, Camden Eastside senior point guard, Jalen Long, the great grandson of legendary Temple Hall of Fame coach John Chaney informed me that he will be playing collegiately at Cheyney University. Long will be playing at the university where his great grandfather amassed a dominating record of 225 wins and 59 losses and led the Wolves to the 1978 NCAA Division II Men’s Basketball Championship. The commitment of Long to Cheyney underscores the timeless allure of the sport in Camden.
Eastside Sr. PG and Cheyney commit Jalen Long
Another full circle moment… #bigBOYbasketball
The championship game itself was highly competitive albeit sloppily played. There were some very quick small guards with crafty handles. There were plenty of killer crossovers, followed by badly missed layups. There were some aggressive wings with decent athleticism that lacked an understanding of basic basketball principles and concepts. Overall, the actual quality of basketball was far from polished.
None of that mattered… Not even a little bit… I loved it…
These kids played extremely HARD for their respective schools, families and for themselves. As the game unfolded with a mix of tenacity and raw talent, it became evident that the true essence of basketball transcended mere skill. These young athletes, driven by pride and determination, epitomized the spirit of competition in its purest form. Their fervor for victory rendered the nuances of polished play inconsequential, as they battled fiercely for the honor of their schools and communities.
They wanted to win. This game mattered for that reason.
If you enjoy the Catholic League at the Palestra, you will definitely find the Camden Middle School Championship entertaining. Just know you will not find many Northeast Philly Irish or South Philly Italian faces in the gym.
This is Camden, New Jersey…
The gym will be full of those that prefer fried chicken, ribs, collard greens and candied yams. Of course, there will be more than a few Puerto Ricans players and their families munching on plantains, pork, and sofrito.
Over the next few years, we will see many of the kids in this game don Eastside, KIPP Cooper Norcross and Mastery High School of Camden jerseys. The purple and gold uniforms have proven elusive for Camden’s native sons in recent years. They seem to be reserved for highly ranked passengers traveling to Camden via the transfer portal on the underground railroad from locales near and far.
As the final buzzer sounded, and the victors from Kipp Lanning Square Middle School celebrated their win over Morgan Village amidst a chorus of cheers, it became clear that the legacy of this championship would endure far beyond the confines of the gymnasium. For in the hearts and minds of these young athletes, the spirit of competition burns brightly, igniting dreams and aspirations that transcend the boundaries of the court.
Camden basketball is some good shit, it’s not just a game that’s celebrated, but a community united in its passion for the sport.
It is simply the finest scholastic basketball event in the nation. The pageantry and passion are unmatched. Every year in late February they shoehorn about 10,000 fans, students, media, security, cheerleaders, coaches and players into the Cathedral of College Basketball for the Philadelphia Catholic League Semifinals and Finals. Situated at 235 South 33rd Street, adjacent to Franklin Field, the Palestra’s significance in the annals of college basketball is unparalleled, its aura palpable as soon as one steps foot inside.
The Catholic League Final Four is a tradition steeped in history and an unrivaled passion for the city game. Arguably, the event stands as the pinnacle of scholastic basketball nationwide. Steven Haug and the Athletic Department at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia do an exceptional job hosting and seem to get better every year.
One simply cannot imagine a young boy or girl between the ages of 5 and 14 experiencing this event and not wanting to play in the Catholic League. It is truly special.
Roman Catholic. Photo by Gavin Bethell
This year’s clash saw the Roman Catholic Cahillites, under the stewardship of Head Coach Chris McNesby, making the 15 block journey from Broad and Vine to University City. Their eyes were set on clinching their 34th Philadelphia Catholic League Championship. Opposing them were the Archbishop Ryan Raiders, led by Joe Zeglinski, venturing down I-95 from the far Northeast, thirsting for their maiden title.
Within Philly’s Basketball community, Roman Catholic is a dynasty of the highest order. The boys from Broad and Vine have a basketball tradition that is recognized nationwide. Like the Babe Ruth’s Yankees, Red Auerbach’s Celtics, Bill Belichick’s Patriots, Geno Auriemma’s Huskies and Mike Krzyzewski’s Blue Devils, these muthafuckas always – I mean always – seem to win the BIG fuckin games.
Shareef Jackson. Photo by Gavin Bethell
Some people like dominant teams, not me…
Dynasties breed fervent followings, and the Cahillite faithful stand as some of the most passionate on the eastern seaboard. The fanbases for dynasties like the Yankees, Celtics, Patriots, Huskies and, dare I say, Cahillites are expansive and exasperating. Roman fans are among the most passionate on the eastern seaboard. Nonetheless, truth be told, Cahillite fans make Catholic League playoff games pop. Spend more than a few minutes with them and you quickly understand one basic fact. They view an appearance in the Catholic League Final Four and Championship games at the Palestra as a birthright.
It’s the power that comes from the collective experience of fandom, whether in euphoria or misery, that makes the Catholic League Final Four so compelling. Tonight, I was hoping to see the Cahillite fans experience the latter. After all, just 12 months ago, I watched as Xzayvier Brown etched his name in the annals of Catholic League history by single handedly carrying the Cahillites to victory on the Palestra floor. Cahillite euphoria was at all-time high that night. The stakes are always heightened with the PCL championship on the line, and the contest are all the more riveting when Roman is involved.
Tonight was no exception.
Before the prayer and nation anthem, I saw my friends and Roman alums Reggie Jackson and Mike Wild. Both asked “who you like?” To both, I replied “Y’all got 33 of ‘em, I want to see Ryan get one.” Both of these Roman guys said, “Naaaah, we NEED one more.”
These muthafuckas…
Darren Williams. Photo by Gavin Bethell
Looking in the stands and along the sideline I see legendary Roman coaches Dennis Seddon and Speedy Morris. Maaaaaan… they are preparing for yet another coronation.
Let’s go Ryan…
I’ve never identified with dynasties. Were I alive during the era of Ruth, Gehrigh, Dimaggio and Mantle, I would have undoubtedly been a fan of the Homestead Grays and Pittsburgh Crawfords. Although, I never saw either play, I am convinced the Josh Gibson was better than Babe Ruth. While I admire and respect Bill Russell’s 11 NBA championships, I would have been a ride or die Wilt Chamberlain fan. As I have tried to explain the Phil Martelli for more than a decade, Dawn Staley is better than Geno. Andy Reid is superior to Belichick. And, everyone knows that John Chaney was superior to Coach K in every way.
Amidst this backdrop of tradition and Roman Catholic dominance, I steadfastly maintain a yearning for the underdog narrative, a desire to witness the coronation of a new champion. Tonight, I hoped Archbishop Ryan would defy the odds and vanquish the mighty Cahillites. With Roman Catholic boasting the aforementioned 33 championship trophies, the stage was set for a clash of titanic proportions.
Early on, the towering presence of Shareef Jackson loomed large for Roman Catholic. Shareef is a physical mismatch in almost every sense at the high school level. His size, power, skill and reflexes give him the ability to do things even when he’s not in position to do them. He’s an underrated athlete, despite lacking great explosiveness, he’s extremely nimble and dexterous for such a big man. He has great hands and soft touch, he is also ambidextrous which allows him to finish easily around the rim. Shareef’s feet are quick for a player with so much weight allowing him to react to plays very well. He has a diverse skill set offensively, to go along with great footwork in the paint that makes him much more than just a big body. He is extremely adept at finishing through contact. Shareef feels he can score almost every time he gets the ball in the post. He can create for himself with a variety of offensive moves whether its facing up or with his back to the basket. On the block, he uses his strength well to overpower opponents and create space to score.
In the first half he also demonstrated that he is capable of knocking down mid-range jumpers and even 3-pointers. Shareef dominates the boards at the high school level, while eating up more space than anyone on the court. He shows solid passing ability and vision for a big man. He can also handle the ball very well, even in the open court when called upon. He also has surprising ball skills for a big man. He has a mean streak which scouts like to see. Marc Jackson’s eldest boy is a leader of men.
Shit… I cannot fathom how Drexel, St. Joseph’s, La Salle, Temple and Penn are not wearing a groove in the Jackson’s front door from constant pounding. This young man is a winning basketball player… Lord knows, EVERY BIG 5 program could use a few of those.
But then Shareef picked up a second foul in the first half and had to sit. His younger brother Sammy, a long, lean highly skilled 6’6” wing, was forced to patrol the paint while big bro sat for a while. A 15 year-old sophomore, Sammy immediately blocked a couple shots and continued to sumo wrestle Ryan’s All-State center Thomas Sorber. Sammy was very poised and held down the fort while his brother sat out much of the second quarter. The sophomore sensation rose to the occasion, embodying poise and tenacity in equal measure.
Shit… I was waiting for Tito, Randy and Jermaine to enter game and pick up the Raiders Ryan for 94 feet… Dem Jackson boys are tuff.
As is often the case in Catholic League playoff games, the contest ebbed and flowed, tension mounting with each possession. Archbishop Ryan, led by the indomitable Thomas Sorber and the electric Darren Williams, staged a stirring comeback, fueled by the relentless energy of sixth man Ryan Everett. Everett made his impact immediately upon entering the game in the second half, collecting three consecutive rebounds, scoring on a putback and feeding Sorber for a crowd pleasing dunk.
Ryan Everett. Photo by Gavin Bethell
Everett willed the Raiders back into the game.
In a heart-stopping finale, it was Everett who seemed poised to etch his name into folklore, sinking a clutch shot to put Ryan ahead by one with mere seconds remaining. But in a moment of breathtaking brilliance, Roman Catholic’s Kabe Goss seized the opportunity, delivering a game-winning dagger from top of the key.
Kabe Goss. Photo by Gavin Bethell
And so, the Cahillites added yet another chapter to their illustrious history, while Archbishop Ryan’s quest for glory continues. In the hallowed halls of the Palestra, where legends are born and dreams are shattered, the Philadelphia Catholic League Boys Basketball Championship remains a testament to the enduring spirit of the game and the timeless allure of tradition.
Fuckin Roman wins… AGAIN!
I like Chris Roantree and Father Judge to knock off Roman and capture the title next year…
The impending closure of Math, Civics and Sciences High School casts a poignant shadow over Philadelphia’s storied basketball landscape. In a city where the game is more than a pastime but a cultural cornerstone, the loss of the Mighty Elephant program resonates deeply.
The Philadelphia Public League has a long and distinguished basketball tradition. The city game has been the core of scholastic sports in Philadelphia for 125 years. Over the course of the first 100 years, traditional high schools West Philadelphia, Overbrook, Southern, Central and Gratz captured 79 boys basketball championships.
Then shit changed…
The narrative shifted dramatically with the rise of charter schools. Dan Brinkley and Prep Charter ushered in a new era in 2007, forever altering the competitive landscape. Since then, traditional powerhouses have found themselves grappling with the influx of charters, drawing talent from across the city and beyond.
A few traditional high schools have managed to win a single Public League title in the Charter era. Lou Biester triumphed with Communication Tech in 2008, Rob Moore and Constitution’s reigned supreme in 2012, and Sean Colson and Martin L. King, Jr. sat on the throne in 2014.
Other than those isolated seasons, Charters have ruled the roost. Indeed, Imhotep has emerged as a prominent national power. This weekend, Andre Noble’s Panthers will capture, what seems like, their 383rd Public League Championship. Noble has shaped the Charter era landscape. He is akin to a Public League version of John Wooden
As the current season unfolds, anticipation hangs heavy over the Public League playoffs, with Imhotep poised to clinch yet another title. However, amidst the fervor of competition lies a bittersweet moment as the basketball community prepares to bid farewell to Math, Civics and Sciences High School. In February 2020, led by the exceptional Wooga Poplar, MCS secured the Public League Championship, a testament to their prowess on the court. The Mighty Elephants have served as a bastion of excellence, producing a cadre of standout players who could have chosen any program but opted for MCS.
Here is a list of some of the outstanding performers that have donned the Mighty Elephant uniform over the past quarter century:
Wooga Poplar Samir Doughty Mike Watkins Lump Worthem Malik Starkes Quadir Welton Britton Lee Lou Myers, Jr. Terquin Mott, Jr. Thomas Moore Kwahmere Gredic Zaahir Smith Jose Ortiz Eric Johnson
From Poplar to Doughty, Watkins to Starkes, the list reads like a who’s who of Philadelphia basketball talent, each name leaving an indelible mark on the game. Their legacy transcends mere statistics, enriching the city’s basketball tapestry with their skill and dedication.
As we bid adieu to Math, Civics and Sciences High School, we also bid farewell to a proud institution steeped in tradition. Their absence will be keenly felt, a void in the tapestry of Philadelphia basketball that may never be fully filled. Yet, amidst the lament, we celebrate the legacy they leave behind and the countless lives they’ve touched through the sport they loved.
Get ready for a clash of titans in the Catholic League semifinals! For over two decades, the Philadelphia Catholic League has witnessed a reign of dominance from two powerhouse programs: Neumann-Goretti and Roman Catholic. With a staggering 19 out of 24 titles between them, these juggernauts have left little room for anyone else to claim the crown.
Their run of dominance was interrupted a mere 5 five times over the past quarter century. Speedy Morris, leading St. Joseph’s Prep, snatched back to back titles in 2004 and 2004. Mike McCarron led North Catholic to a title in 2008 after Speedy vanquished an undefeated (14-0) Roman squad in the quarterfinals. John Mosco led Archbishop Wood to a pair of titles in 2017 and 2021.
But every dynasty faces its challengers, and this year, the boys from Northeast Philly are poised to shake up the status quo. Led by head coaches Joe Zeglinski and Chris Roantree, Archbishop Ryan and Father Judge have emerged as formidable contenders. With a blend of preparation, toughness, and fearlessness, they’re ready to take on the blue bloods from Center City and South Philly.
Could this be the year the balance of power shifts? Will we witness Northeast Philly’s emergence as new epicenter of scholastic hoops in Philadelphia? Or will Neumann-Goretti and Roman Catholic continue their stranglehold on the championship trophy?
Let’s talk about it!!
Maggie’s is a Northeast Philadelphia landmark. Maggie’s is a terrific place to eat, drink and meet with friends and make new ones. The menu is outstanding and the food is absolutely delicious.
After months of legal turmoil veiling my focus, I found myself thrust back into the heart of basketball drama, this time amidst the fervor of a Philadelphia Catholic League Playoff clash between Archbishop Ryan and St. Joseph’s Prep. I haven’t been writing much about high school basketball. I’ve been largely preoccupied with a pressing legal matter for the past 11 months. Fortunately, those issues are in my rearview mirror. Just know, I’ve got a helluva story to tell and I’m gonna tell it in excruciating detail. For now, like the late great Marion Barry, all I’m gonna say is…
“Bitch set me up!”
Y’all ain’t gonna believe what the prosecutor tried to do. But that’s another story for another day in the very near future… Stay tuned for details.
Today, in a battle reminiscent of classic Philadelphia high school basketball lore, Archbishop Ryan clashed with St. Joseph’s Prep in a Catholic League Playoff game that had the entire city on edge. The stakes were high, with a trip to the iconic Palestra dangling as the ultimate prize.
The matchup was a spectacle, boasting a lineup of D1 prospects destined for greatness. Both teams were under the guidance of esteemed coaches eager to etch their names in the annals of Catholic League history. Jason Harrigan, known for his past successes at Del-Val Charter and Cardinal O’Hara, now helmed St. Joe’s Prep, aiming to lead his squad to glory after coming agonizingly close last season.
Jason Harrigan, St. Joseph’s Prep Head Coach
However, the road to victory was fraught with challenges. Harrigan’s plans took a hit when standout 6’9” 240 pound, PF/C Tristen Guillouette faced eligibility issues, altering Prep’s strategy and forcing them to adapt on the fly. Despite the setback, Harrigan’s quartet of D1 guards, Jaron McKie, Jordan Ellerbee, Jalen Harper and Olin Chamberlain fought valiantly to keep their dreams alive.On the opposing bench, Joe Zeglinski, a coaching veteran with a storied track record, marshaled his Archbishop Ryan team with precision. Led by the dynamic duo of Thomas Sorber and Darren Williams, Ryan’s players showcased their mettle in a tightly contested affair on the road.
Thomas Sorber, ’24 Archbishop Ryan
The venue was perfect… The refurbished and renovated St. Joseph’s Prep gym is stunning. The lighting is wonderful, the floor is spectacular, there’s ample space for a couple thousand fever pitched spectators and the scoreboards are state of the art. Danny DiBerardinis and the rest of the Prep Administration have done a phenomenal job restoring the gymnasium to peak condition.
The game unfolded as a defensive chess match, with Prep’s relentless pressure testing Ryan’s offensive prowess. Sorber, in particular, found himself the focal point of Prep’s defensive scheme, laboring for every point while Williams seized opportunities to shine.
Olin Chamberlain, ’25 St. Joe’s Prep
No one should be surprised that Ryan is back in the Final Four. Georgetown commit, Sorber is concluding one of the great schoolboy careers in recent memory. His sidekick, Florida Gulf Coast commit, Darren Williams is morphing in Cuttino Mobely right before our eyes.
In a tightly waged contest, the two Ryan stars managed to eke out a road win over the four D1 guards. To Harrigan’s credit, St. Joseph’s Prep had an excellent defensive gameplan. They hounded, harassed, fronted and double Sorber. He worked extremely hard for every point.
The intense focus on Sorber allowed Williams to take advantage opportunities on the wing. The smooth southpaw hit big shot after big shot to fight off a persistent Prep attack.
Jaron McKie, ’25 St. Joe’s Prep
Heavily reliant on isolation, Prep struggled to establish a rhythm on the offensive end. While Ellerbee and Harper can thrive in transition and beating defenders off the bounce, McKie is an absolute knock down jump shooter. While he can create his own shot, that’s not his forte. I kept waiting for Prep to run McKie off a screen or two or three or four to get an open look. McKie with his feet set from 22 feet is equivalent to a layup and Chamberlain can get him the ball in shooting position.
In the end, Sorber missed a free throw and Jaden Murray misfired on consecutive layups to give Prep an opportunity to steal a win. Huge shots by Ellerbee and McKie led to a tie game. After what seemed like 7 consecutive time outs, Ryan inbounded the ball and Ryan Everett made a perfect entry pass to Williams who immediately released a picture perfect 15 foot jump shot that was pure from the moment it left his hand.
Game!
Ryan is once again in the Final Four at the Palestra.
Will someone other that Roman or Neumann-Goretti cut down the nets this year?
I don’t know… But I would not bet against, Zeglinski, Sorber and Williams.
Joe Zeglinski is, by far, the most accomplished coach in the Catholic League without a title. Since taking over at his alma mater, he’s been to the Final Four damn near every year. He’s produced a plethora of scholarship players. One of his guys is an NBA player. All he does compete against the best year in and year out.
Could Archbishop Ryan defy the odds and topple perennial powerhouse Neumann-Goretti and beat Roman Catholic or Father Judge to claim the championship? With Zeglinski, Sorber, and Williams leading the charge, anything seems possible.
In the unpredictable landscape of Catholic League high school basketball, one thing is certain: the stage is set for an epic showdown, where legends would be made and dreams realized. And in this tale of triumph and tenacity, Archbishop Ryan has staked its claim as a team to be reckoned with.
As we get to the end of the Regular Season and the Conference playoffs, this year has been an excellent year where parity has been the key word and the “Blue Bloods” of District 1 (Chester, Abington, Lower Merion, Plymouth Whitemarsh & Coatesville) have expectedly and somewhat unexpectedly maintained their positions among the top of the standings while teams such as Henderson, Central Bucks East, Bensalem, Spring-Ford, Unionville & Upper Dublin (last District title 1985) are on missions to bring home the elusive District title in their respective classes. This season has been as competitive as any in the recent memory of District 1. In past years, District 1 has been dominated by names such as Kobe Bryant, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Eric Dixon, John Allen, John Salmons and Jameer Nelson. This year, District 1 has had a plethora of very good players, but no one has separated themselves to that extent. A lot of the players this year have crossed that 1,000-point threshold, which shows the quality and the type of high school careers of these young men. The playoffs should be as exciting as almost every lower seed team will have a chance of winning. As the title states, “Coaching Matters” and players will look to create their own legacy in this postseason.
I have chosen a few players and coaches that have stood out in the area. District 1 covers the largest area in SEPA basketball. With that understanding, I have 3 All area teams that covers every league that makes up District 1. Also, I wanted to give some recognition to some of the Freshman and Sophomores that have been contributing heavily on the Varsity level.
Keith Taylor, Chester Head Coach
Coach of the Year-Keith Taylor (Chester) This was a year when a lot of coaches could have won this award. You have coaches like Chris Cowles (Unionville), Derek Brooks (Upper Dublin) and Ron Morris (Bensalem), who have led their programs to new heights. Eric Burnett (Phoenixville), Ken Ivory (Pottstown), Joe Dempsey (Spring Ford), Jason Ritter (Henderson), Eric Henrysen (CB East) and Pat Lockard (Methacton) battle through their tough leagues every year and seem to get stronger in the postseason. You have coaches such as John Allen (Coatesville) and Pat Fleury (Cheltenham) who year in and year out do an incredible job despite all the barriers that other coaches in this district don’t have to deal with. But it came down to 3 wonderful coaches that led their teams to incredible and unexpected seasons. Those 3 coaches are Timothy Smallwood (Radnor), Gregg Downer (Lower Merion) and this year’s winner Keith Taylor (Chester). Each of these coaches had tremendous arguments to win the award. Smallwood is a new coach and lost much of the team that won the 5A District title last year and he led this unheralded group to the #3 seed (5A) and a 19-3 record. Last year’s team was a hard act to follow but the encore turned out to be much better than people expected. Downer, what else can be said about the job he does yearly except Remarkably Consistent. This year was supposed to be the year that Lower Merion was going to come back to the pack. This year’s Sr class has seen 2 District Titles (back-to-back) and a Final Four appearance last year. He led this year’s squad to a 21-1 record and the #1 seed in District 1 6A.
But nobody led a turnaround like Coach Taylor of Chester. 2 years ago, Chester had the look of a team that might 3-peat in District 1. Winning the 5A title with 3 Sophomore starters, it had the look of a dynasty in the making. Chester, historically the best District 1 team in the history of HS basketball in PA. This was not a new phenomenon that Chester would have a dynasty. But along the way, changes started happening. 1st Chester lost 2 of those Sophomore starters to Catholic League teams and fell out of the playoffs all together last year and coming into this year, the 3rd Sophomore starter from the 2022 champs, went to the Catholic League too. Expectations around the area for Chester were the lowest in recent memory. No one was picking Chester to win anything, no one even knew if they were going to make or miss the playoffs again. Taylor and his staff knew something that the rest of the region did not know “Chester is still Chester”. This is not like the Chester juggernauts of the yesteryear; this is a Chester team led by a football star Connecticut (Football) Signee Dominick Toy and by Sr G Dante Atkinson. This group has 8 players averaging between 10.5 and 5.3 ppg. This group may not be led by a Zain Shaw, Jameer Nelson or Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, but by group of tough-minded players ready for battle. This group ended the regular season at 20-2 and are poised to make a run at the District and State crowns. In a year where there are no dominant teams throughout the district, Taylor and the Clippers of Chester have an excellent chance to add to the school’s impressive hardware total.
Co Player of the Year-Jaden Colzie (Plymouth Whitemarsh) & Nyle Ralph-Beyer (Henderson) Both players have proven that their reputations coming into the season were warranted. Sacred Heart signee Ralph-Beyer has led Henderson to a 19-3 record while averaging over 23 ppg. The silky-smooth Guard scores in a variety of different ways while playing unselfish basketball. He also accepts the challenge of guarding the opposing team’s top perimeter player while scoring at this clip. He is trying to lead Henderson to their 1st District Title in school history. Him and backcourt mate Connor Fleet, have both eclipsed the 1,000-point barrier this season, giving them that rare distinction in High School. For these reasons Nyle has been named Co Player of the Year in District 1. The season for Jaden Colzie culminates a superb career that he has had at Plymouth Whitemarsh. A 4-year starter, Colzie always seems to play his best in the big games. Last year in Kobe Bryant Gymnasium, Colzie led the 4th quarter charge that knocked off 2-time defending 6A District Champions, Lower Merion. Then went on a delivered the knockout blow to Spring Ford to win the 6A District 1 title. This year for an encore, Colzie in the 1st SOL game of the season, he went to Abington and scored 27 points on 10/11 shooting in the FIRST HALF. Then in a matchup with Henderson, he went for 31 points in a heartbreaking loss. Because of such outbursts, Colzie faced a variety of junk defenses and still averaged 20.3 ppg and went over 1,000 points. He is on pace to be in the Top 10 scorers in Plymouth Whitemarsh history which is impressive considering his freshman season was the “COVID” year. Colzie has been named Co Player of the Year for always stepping up in the big games.
The echoes of the Wildcats’ triumphant three-point barrage against Stonehill still resonate within the walls of Rupp Arena as No. 17 Kentucky prepares to face a hungry St. Joseph’s team on Monday night in Lexington, Ky. The Wildcats, rebounding from a challenging loss to #1 ranked Kansas, showcased their deep shooting prowess in a dominating 101-67 victory. However, the focus now shifts to a pivotal matchup against an improved and determined St. Joseph’s squad, with shooting accuracy emerging as the linchpin for success.
Rob Dillingham, Kentucky Freshman
In a surprising turn of events, it’s the unsung freshmen, Rob Dillingham and Reed Sheppard, who have stolen the spotlight for the Wildcats early in the season. Against Stonehill, Sheppard dazzled with 25 points, sinking 7 of 8 from beyond the arc, while Dillingham added 20 points, connecting on three three-pointers. Both players also demonstrated their playmaking abilities, contributing seven assists each. Despite the presence of highly acclaimed recruits like Justin Edwards and D.J. Wagner, it is Sheppard and Dillingham who have exceeded expectations, adding a new dynamic to Kentucky’s lineup.
Sheppard and Dillingham have outperformed all expectations early in this season. While Senior wing Antonio Reeves leads Kentucky with 17.8 points per game, Dillingham averages 16.8 points per game in just 22.3 mpg. Meanwhile, Sheppard has contributed 13.3 points and 3.0 steals per game in just 23.0 mpg for the guard-heavy Wildcats. Senior forward Tre Mitchell is adding 12.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game.
Reed Shepperd, Kentucky Freshman
It should be noted that Sheppard is Kentucky royalty. His father, Jeff Sheppard is a Kentucky legend. The elder Sheppard played at Kentucky from 1993 to 1998 and was named Most Outstanding Player in the NCAA tournament in San Antonio in 1998. He played on two national championship teams at Kentucky under Rick Pitino in 1996 and under Tubby Smith in 1998.
However, not all of Kentucky’s highly touted recruits have found immediate success. Justin Edwards and D.J. Wagner, projected as one-and-done lottery picks, have struggled to acclimate to the college game. Both players are averaging just above 9 points per game and have yet to find their rhythm, especially from behind the three-point line. Shooting percentages from behind the arc reveal their difficulties, with Edwards at a mere 14.3% and Wagner at 23.5%. As they face familiar foes in St. Joseph’s, the hope is that the challenge will serve as motivation for the talented rookies to break out of their offensive slump.
Lynn Greer, St. Joseph’s
In his fifth year as head coach, Billy Lange has been steadily steering St. Joseph’s in the right direction. The Hawks, off to an impressive 3-1 start, have shown promise. Expectations are sky high among Hawk faithful. Lange enters the game with enough size and athleticism to truly compete with SEC programs like Kentucky. Redshirt freshman center Christ Essandoko is 7’0” and 285. He is averaging 4.0 ppg, 6.7 rpg and 1.3 bpg. St. Joseph’s features a pair of athletic power forwards. Sophomore PF Rasheer Fleming, a Camden High School teammate of D.J. Wagner, is averaging 10.5 ppg and 5.3 rpg. A gifted athlete, Fleming can run and jump with anyone in the country and has started to generate some NBA buzz. Kacper Klaczek (6’8”, 225 lbs) is another athletic PF that plays extremely hard for Lange. Thus far, Klaczek is contributing 7.0 ppg and 4.3 prg in 24.0 mpg.
St. Joseph’s possesses a well-rounded roster, with junior Erik Reynolds II leading the scoring charge at 14.3 points per game. Reynolds is complemented by Lynn Greer III,Xzayvier Brown, and the athletic Fleming, all averaging double figures in scoring. Greer has evolved in a selfless leader in this program. He has the size, strength and lateral quickness to compete with Wagner, Dillingham and Shepperd. Brown was the best high school guard in the Philadelphia/Camden region last season, not named Wagner. His transition to college basketball has been seamless. Lange has developed a high degree of trust in Brown very early in his rookie campaign. His teammates also look for Brown to make plays in crunch time. The Hawks’ success hinges on their ability to convert three-pointers, a facet they struggled with in their last game.
Xzayvier Brown, St. Joseph’s
Unlike most Kentucky fans, Calipari and his assistant Bruiser Flint are intimately familiar with the Hawk program. While he was coaching UMass, Calipari and former Hawk Coach Phil Martelli waged some serious slugfests. Flint, a former SJU point guard (1983-1987) also led UMass for five years in the late 90’s and battled Martelli and the Hawks every year in some memorable contests.
The matchup holds significance for both teams, as a St. Joseph’s victory would signify a turning point and a re-emergence as a national force. For Kentucky, the familiarity with the Hawks’ program adds an intriguing layer to the game, with the potential for breakout performances from Delaware Valley natives Edwards and Wagner against a familiar foe.
As Kentucky and St. Joseph’s prepare to clash on the hardwood, the game takes on added importance for both teams. Kentucky’s young stars aim to continue their impressive start, while St. Joseph’s, under the leadership of Billy Lange, seeks to announce their arrival on the national stage with a signature win. The spotlight will be on the three-point line, where Kentucky’s sharpshooters and St. Joseph’s skilled backcourt will determine the outcome of this high-stakes showdown. The stage is set for a thrilling encounter that could reshape the narratives of both teams in the early stages of the college basketball season.
We will track the “Boxscores” and update them weekly or biweekly to help fans in the Greater Philadelphia Region track and compare the performance of their favorite D1 college players.
The Black Cager 