PHILADELPHIA — In an era where the soul of traditional high school basketball is increasingly traded for national spotlight and transactional deals, one Philadelphia powerhouse is drawing a line on the hardwood of its home court. The Neumann-Goretti Saints boys’ basketball program today announced the launch of the “Patron Saint Donor Campaign,” a clarion call to preserve the last vestiges of Philly’s traditional scholastic basketball.
The campaign is not merely a fundraiser; it is an innovative and ncessary mobilization. It is a bid for reinforcements in a quiet but intensifying war for the very identity of the sport. For decades, elite basketball was forged in the crucible of local rivalry—in the packed, echoing gyms of neighborhood Catholic and public schools where the dreams were city titles, district crowns, and state championships. The heroes wore the names of their communities on their chests.
That era is fading. Today, the gravitational pull of national basketball academies, with their focus on individual rankings and nascent NIL empires, is siphoning talent from the historic bastions of the game. Iconic programs like Neumann-Goretti, Roman Catholic, DeMatha, Camden, Imhotep, and Chester—institutions that are pillars of their cities—find themselves battling not just for wins, but for their existential relevance.
Yet, Neumann-Goretti refuses to cede the court. The Saints continue to compete at the highest national level, consistently facing off against well-funded, coast-to-coast academies. Their strategy is not to emulate these new models, but to defeat them through the very traditions that built the program: deep local talent, ferocious team identity, and the unbreakable bond between a team and its community.
“This campaign is an innovative response to a national problem,” said Delgreco Wilson, Black Cager Sports. “Neumann-Goretti is not a franchise. It is a Philadelphia institution. To win this fight, they need the army that has always been their foundation: their community.”
The Patron Saint Donor Campaign offers basketball purists and Philadelphia loyalists a direct stake in this struggle.
For the 2025-26 season, a limited cadre of just 20 supporters will be enlisted as “Patron Saints.” A donation of $100 secures this enlistment, granting:
Free entry to all Neumann-Goretti HOME games, guaranteeing a seat at every battle, even sellouts against national opponents.
A distinctive Patron Saints t-shirt, a uniform of solidarity.\
A $10 coupon for the official team store.
“We are calling on anyone who loves what high school basketball was, and what it still should be,” said Assistant Coach Pat Sorrentino. “When you become a Patron Saint, you are not just buying a ticket. You are enlisting in the cause. You are helping to ensure that the future of this game isn’t shaped solely in impersonal academies, but continues to thrive on the home floors where passion is born and legends are made.”
The offer is intentionally exclusive, mirroring the prized, hard-fought nature of a spot on the Saints’ roster itself.
The mission is clear: to provide the resources for Neumann-Goretti to continue its dual quest—to hunt national titles while fiercely guarding the local, communal soul of the sport.
To learn more and to enlist as a Patron Saint for the 2025-26 season, visit the Neumann-Goretti Athletics website. All 20 spots are expected to be claimed swiftly by those who believe the fight is worth the price of admission.
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About Neumann-Goretti High School: Neumann-Goretti High School, a Catholic secondary school in the Franciscan tradition located in the heart of South Philadelphia, has long been a national epicenter for basketball excellence. Its program is defined by a profound commitment to community, discipline, and the development of young men as both athletes and citizens, producing countless collegiate standouts and professional players.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – In the era of basketball as personal branding, where elite high school prospects migrate to national academies and highlight reels are currency, a counter-narrative is quietly building in the Philadelphia suburbs. His name is Korey Francis, a junior guard at Monsignor Bonner & Archbishop Prendergast Catholic High School. To the casual observer scanning national rankings, he may not yet register. But to watch him play—to truly understand the fabric of his game—is to witness one of the finest, most complete guard prospects in the nation. He is not a product of the assembly line; he is a testament to the enduring value of loyalty, intelligence, and old-school grit.
Korey Francis, Bonner-Prendie junior guard
A Player Without a Position, A Team Without a Ceiling
At Bonner-Prendie, Francis is a basketball paradox listed at guard. Under the shrewd guidance of Coach Billy Cassidy, Francis morphs from game to game, even possession to possession, into whatever his Friars need to win. With a roster featuring smaller, quicker perimeter players, Cassidy deploys Francis as a point guard, shooting guard, small forward, and even a burly power forward. He initiates the offense, posts up smaller defenders, switches onto bigs defensively, and crashes the glass with the tenacity of a forward. This positional fluidity isn’t a gimmick; it’s a master class in basketball utility. Yet, when the clock winds down and the outcome hangs in the balance, the ball inevitably finds its way to Francis’s hands. He is the calm in the chaos, the team’s true north.
The Anatomy of a Floor General
Projecting Francis to the next level clarifies his ultimate destiny: he is a cerebral, classic point guard. His strengths read like a manifesto for purists who believe the game is won between the ears.
His court vision and playmaking are elite. He pushes the ball with purpose, not panic, and sees passing lanes before they materialize. He is a quarterback in high-tops, running the offense with a veteran’s poise, his primary objective being to make his teammates more effective. His physicality is his signature. At a sturdy 6’3″, he leverages his strength like an NFL fullback, using a deft handle and a decisive first step to get a shoulder into defenders, creating space to barrel into the lane. Once there, he is a maestro of the “penetrate-and-pitch” game, finishing through contact or dishing with perfect timing.
Furthermore, he is an exceptional rebounder for a guard, a skill that instantly triggers transition opportunities. Defensively, his strength and intelligence allow him to guard multiple positions, effectively switching onto both bigger and smaller opponents. This is not a flashy scorer hunting shots; this is a conductor orchestrating a victory.
The Measurable Questions and the Intangible Answers
The scouting report will rightly note areas for growth: his three-point shot is inconsistent, and he lacks the blinding, elite athleticism commonly associated with top prospects in leagues like the SEC or Big Ten. He is a worker, not a wow-er.
But to focus solely on these metrics is to miss the forest for the trees. Francis is only a junior, with ample time to refine his jumper—a project far more achievable than instilling the innate feel for the game he already possesses. More importantly, his perceived “lack of elite quickness” is mitigated by a high basketball IQ that allows him to anticipate and dictate, rather than simply react. He wins with positioning, strength, and savvy, assets that translate to any level of competition. He is, in essence, D1-ready in the categories that are hardest to teach: leadership, physicality, and clutch decision-making. His “Iron Man” durability and unflappable demeanor under pressure are the bedrock of his value.
The Loyalty and Leadership of a Throwback
In an age of transactional basketball, Korey Francis’s story is profoundly refreshing. While peers of his stature have left Philadelphia for the national academy circuit, Francis has remained fiercely loyal to Coach Cassidy and Bonner-Prendie. This commitment speaks to a character often absent from the recruiting discourse. He is not just building a team; he is building a community.
Off the court, Francis embodies the ideal of the scholar-athlete. A straight-A student and the elected president of his class, he demonstrates that elite competitiveness and academic excellence are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing. This discipline and intelligence are palpably evident in his play. He processes the game like an honor student, solving defensive schemes in real time.
The Verdict: A Prospect Worth Betting On
The modern basketball landscape is littered with athletic marvels whose games lack soul and structure. Korey Francis is the antithesis. He is a throwback to a time when the point guard was an extension of the coach, tasked with elevating everyone around him.
Yes, he must continue to extend his shooting range. Yes, he will face athletes at the next level who can match his strength. But to bet against Korey Francis is to bet against intelligence, against leadership, against an unwavering will to win. He is not just a mid-to-high major Division I point guard prospect; he is the prototype of a player who wins championships because he makes the complex simple and his teammates better.
In the noisy, hype-driven world of high school basketball, the steady, commanding drumbeat of Korey Francis’s game is a sound more and more college coaches are beginning to hear. They are listening to the future of a program—a leader who doesn’t just play the game, but truly understands it.
A Century of Dominance in the City of Brotherly Love
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Philadelphia’s basketball heritage reads like a who’s who of hardwood legends—from Wilt Chamberlain’s earth-shaking dunks at Overbrook to Rasheed Wallace’s dominant reign at Simon Gratz. Yet when the final buzzer sounds on this century-long game of Philadelphia basketball supremacy, one program stands above all others: Roman Catholic High School and its record 34 Philadelphia Catholic League (PCL) championships. No other institution has so consistently combined competitive excellence with transformative life lessons for young men, creating a basketball dynasty that has flourished across generations.
The numbers alone tell a compelling story. Since the Catholic League’s formation, Roman Catholic has captured nearly twice as many titles as its nearest competitor (Neumann-Goretti with 22). This isn’t merely a statistic—it’s a testament to an enduring culture of excellence that has survived economic downturns, demographic shifts, and the ever-changing landscape of scholastic sports. From Billy Markward’s nine championships between 1922-1934 to Chris McNesby’s most recent titles in 2023-2024, Roman Catholic has set the gold standard for Philadelphia basketball.
The Coaches Who Built a Legacy
What separates Roman Catholic from other storied programs isn’t just the quantity of championships, but the quality of leadership that has sustained success across distinct basketball eras. The program’s foundation was laid by Billy Markward, whose teams dominated the 1920s and 1930s with an unprecedented nine PCL titles. His squads set a standard of excellence that would become the program’s hallmark—a blend of disciplined play and relentless competitiveness.
The torch was later carried by Speedy Morris, who ushered in a new golden age during the 1970s with six championships between 1969-1980. Morris’s teams embodied Philadelphia basketball—tough, fundamentally sound, and mentally resilient. His success proved Roman Catholic could adapt to the modern era while maintaining its core values.
Roman Catholic Coaches – Dennis Seddon, Brad Wanamaker and Chris McNesby
Then came Dennis Seddon, whose tenure from the late 1980s through 2000 represents perhaps the most dominant stretch in PCL history. Nine championships in twelve years (1989-2000) established Roman Catholic as the league’s preeminent power. Seddon’s influence extended beyond wins; he mentored future coaches like Chris McNesby, creating a coaching tree that would extend the program’s success into the 21st century.
McNesby himself—a Roman Catholic alum who played under Seddon—added four PCL titles and three PIAA state championships across two coaching stints (2008-2016 and 2021-2024). His 270-73 career record reflects both consistent excellence and the ability to develop players for life beyond basketball—a hallmark of the Roman Catholic philosophy. As McNesby noted, “It’s after they’re finished playing, seeing them get jobs and seeing them be successful fathers and husbands, and then see them passing it forward”.
Roman Catholic Freshman Shayne Jackson
More Than Championships: The Roman Catholic Difference
Roman Catholic’s supremacy isn’t measured solely in banners. The school has long served as a transformative institution for Philadelphia’s youth, particularly those from working-class backgrounds. Founded in 1890 as the nation’s first free Catholic high school for boys, Roman Catholic maintained its commitment to accessibility even after transitioning to tuition-based education in the 1960s. This mission—to provide “a comprehensive academic curriculum within a disciplined Catholic environment”—has shaped generations of student-athletes.
The school’s impact extends far beyond the court. As McNesby reflected on his own experience: “You really meet kids from all different areas, backgrounds, demographics, financial status. It helps you grow up pretty quickly, and you really learn how to get along with others”. This environment fosters the type of personal growth that produces not just great players, but great men—a fact borne out by the program’s alumni network of successful professionals across industries.
Roman Catholic’s 1902 Basketball Team featuring John Lee (far left)
Roman Catholic has also been a pioneer in racial progress. In 1902—just 12 years after its founding—the school fought for the inclusion of John Lee, the first Black player in the Catholic League. This legacy makes Brad Wanamaker’s recent appointment as head coach particularly significant. As the program’s first Black head coach and a distinguished alum (Class of 2007), Wanamaker represents both continuity and progress. His hiring—praised by alumni like Mike Ringgold as proof that “Roman is the best high school job in the city”—signals the program’s commitment to opportunity and meritocracy.
The Wanamaker Era: Tradition Meets the Future
Brad Wanamaker’s ascent to head coach represents a full-circle moment for Roman Catholic basketball. A 2007 graduate who led the Cahillites to a PCL championship that year, Wanamaker brings unique credentials: honorable mention All-American at Pittsburgh, 11-year professional career (including four NBA seasons), and firsthand experience of Roman Catholic’s transformative culture. As he noted upon his hiring: “Roman changed a lot in my life coming in, so I feel like I’m forever indebted to them, and what better way to give back than leading the team?”
Wanamaker’s coaching philosophy blends old-school toughness with modern player development. “Better men is the biggest key,” he emphasizes. “Going through adversity, perseverance and being from Philly, just that toughness”. This approach resonates with Philadelphia basketball purists while addressing contemporary challenges facing young athletes. His professional experience—including stints with the Boston Celtics and Golden State Warriors—provides invaluable perspective for players aspiring to collegiate and professional careers.
Notably, Wanamaker represents a new generation of Roman Catholic leadership while maintaining ties to the program’s storied past. He played under Dennis Seddon and served as an assistant to Chris McNesby, absorbing lessons from both mentors. As McNesby observed: “We were riding together to a game and Brad said ‘I’m ready’. After that I felt it was time for me to step aside…The program is in great hands”. This seamless transition exemplifies Roman Catholic’s unique ability to renew itself while honoring tradition.
Conclusion: The Standard Bearer
Philadelphia’s basketball landscape features numerous legendary programs—Overbrook’s Wilt Chamberlain, West Catholic’s Ernie Beck, Simon Gratz’s Rasheed Wallace, Neumann-Goretti’s Carl Arrigale dynasty. Each has compelling claims to greatness during specific eras. But when evaluating sustained excellence across generations, Roman Catholic stands alone.
The numbers—34 Catholic League championships, multiple coaching dynasties, countless college and professional players—only begin to tell the story . Roman Catholic’s true greatness lies in its ability to win at the highest level while fulfilling its mission to develop “men of personal integrity”. From Thomas E. Cahill’s original vision in 1890 to Brad Wanamaker’s groundbreaking appointment in 2025, the school has remained true to its values while adapting to basketball’s evolution.
As Philadelphia basketball enters its second century, Roman Catholic remains the gold standard—a program where championships and character development go hand-in-hand. The Cahillites’ purple and gold banners represent more than victories; they symbolize a tradition of excellence that continues to shape Philadelphia’s basketball identity. In a city that treasures its hoops history, Roman Catholic stands as the most accomplished and influential program of them all.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – In the heart of Philadelphia, where the echoes of basketball history reverberate through the halls of The Palestra, a new chapter was written on Sunday afternoon. Father Judge High School, a proud institution from Northeast Philly, defeated defending champion Roman Catholic, 41-34, to claim the Philadelphia Catholic League Boys’ Basketball Championship. The victory, their first in 27 years, was not just a triumph for the Crusaders but a celebration of the enduring legacy of one of the most storied venues in sports.
The Palestra, the cathedral of college basketball, turned 98 this year. Since its opening in 1927, it has hosted more games, more visiting teams, and more NCAA tournaments than any other arena in the country. Its hallowed floor has been graced by legends, from Wilt Chamberlain to Kobe Bryant, and its intimate, raucous atmosphere has made it a shrine for basketball purists. Yet, in recent years, The Palestra’s relevance as a contemporary venue for college basketball has waned. The Philadelphia Big 5, once the lifeblood of the arena, no longer calls it home. Temple, Villanova, La Salle, and St. Joseph’s have opted to play their city series games on their own campuses, leaving Penn, the Palestra’s home team, as a fading force in the Ivy League.
But if the Big 5 has moved on, the Catholic League has stepped in to fill the void. The Catholic League Final Four has become the premier basketball event at The Palestra, a showcase of the city’s rich high school basketball tradition. On Saturday, approximately 10,000 fans—exceeding the arena’s official capacity of 8,700—packed into the venerable building to witness Father Judge and Roman Catholic battle for the most coveted high school championship in Pennsylvania. The atmosphere was electric, a reminder of what makes The Palestra special: the passion of the fans, the intensity of the competition, and the sense that, for a few hours, time stands still.
The game itself was a gritty, hard-fought affair, emblematic of Philadelphia basketball. Father Judge, led by head coach Chris Roantree, overcame a sluggish start to outlast Roman Catholic in a defensive slugfest. The Crusaders went the entire first quarter without a field goal, managing only two free throws, as Roman Catholic’s suffocating defense disrupted their rhythm. Sophomore point guard Tyler Sutton was a revelation for Roman, scoring 20 of his team’s 34 points and showcasing a blend of poise and skill that belied his age. But Father Judge’s senior point guard, Kevair Kennedy, weathered the storm, delivering clutch free throws down the stretch to seal the victory. His 10 points, four rebounds, and three assists may not have been eye-popping, but his leadership and resilience were instrumental in securing the title.
The game also featured a standout performance from Father Judge’s Everett Barnes, whose defensive dominance evoked memories of Bill Russell. Barnes, a towering presence in the paint, blocked shot after shot, keeping his team within striking distance during their offensive struggles. Alongside Roman Catholic’s Shareef Jackson, another formidable big man, Barnes is headed to the Patriot League next year, leaving one to wonder why Penn’s Steve Donahue didn’t make a stronger push to keep these local talents in the city. Their absence will be felt, but their performances on Saturday were a testament to the depth of talent in Philadelphia high school basketball.
For Father Judge, the victory was the culmination of a remarkable turnaround. Four years ago, Roantree took over a program that had gone 2-12 in the Catholic League. Under his guidance, the Crusaders have risen to the top, their journey a testament to the power of perseverance and belief. The postgame celebration was a scene of unbridled joy, as players, coaches, and fans reveled in a moment that had been decades in the making. For the Judge community, this championship was more than just a trophy; it was a reaffirmation of their identity and a source of immense pride.
As the final buzzer sounded and the Crusaders celebrated on the court, it was impossible not to feel the weight of history. The Palestra, with its wooden bleachers and arched rafters, has witnessed countless moments of triumph and heartbreak. On Sunday, it added another to its collection. Father Judge’s victory was a reminder of what makes this arena so special: its ability to bring people together, to create memories that last a lifetime, and to serve as a bridge between the past and the present. In a city that loves its basketball, The Palestra remains a sacred space. While the Big 5 may have moved on, the Catholic League has ensured that the arena’s legacy endures. For one night, at least, The Palestra was once again the center of the basketball universe, and Father Judge’s Crusaders were its brightest stars.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – These Philly hoop streets? They dry as a bone, baby. You can cruise every corner of this city, from the gritty blocks to the shiny high-rises, looking for that fire—Purple Haze, Kush, Modified Bananas, whatever your vice—but don’t you dare step foot in South Philly’s Wells Fargo Center. Nah, Daryl Morey and Nick Nurse out here peddling straight-up trash. That shit they pushing? TRASH! Full of seeds, won’t stay lit, burns your throat like cheap rotgut. Shit’ll leave you with a headache and no buzz, just mad as hell. You’ll wanna slap the taste outta Morey and Nurse’s mouths for putting Maxey out there on the corner hustling that garbage. Straight disrespectful.
Now, if you roll through University City, you’ll catch Steve Donahue slinging what I swear is oregano. Man, it’s a damn shame. Back in the day, the Quakers had that premium smoke at 33rd and Walnut. I ain’t lying, I used to puff on that Ugonna Onyekwe and Koko Archibong back in the day—25 years ago, that was the real deal. Before them, Jerome Allen and Matt Maloney were holding it down with that top-shelf product. You could hit that two, three times a week and never feel cheated. These days? Don’t even bother with 33rd and Walnut unless you wanna waste your time and cash.
Over at 34th and Market, Zack Spiker and Wil Chavis are pushing that reggie. Ain’t nothing special about it. Yeah, it’s better than nothing, but it ain’t gonna get you where you need to be. Smoke two, three blunts of that weak sauce, and all you’ll get is the munchies and a whole lotta disappointment.
Now, if you head up to Wynnefield, it’s a crapshoot. Some nights, you might luck up and catch that fire. I’m talking East Coast elite, smooth flavor, strong but not overwhelming. But other nights? Billy Lange’s out there slinging that same ol’ reggie. Coach Lange and Justin Scott need to find themselves a better connect, ‘cause this ain’t cutting it.
Same story at 20th and Olney. Hit it on the right night, and you’ll find that killer “Deuce Jones” strain Fran Dunphy and Donnie Carr been pushing. That’s the good stuff, baby. But too often, they dry, and you’re stuck with that same weak reggie. Heartbreaking.
Now, if you swing down North to Broad and Cecil B. Moore, prepare to be let down. Earlier this year, they had some decent “mid”—not great, but better than reggie. Lately though? Adam Fisher, Chris Clark, and Bob Jordan been serving up straight disappointment. It’s a damn shame, ‘cause John Chaney held it down for 25 years with that killer product. These new cats? They ain’t got the touch.
And don’t even get me started on the Main Line. A few years back, you couldn’t miss. Yeah, it was overpriced, but it was worth every penny. Jay Wright had that hydroponic lab on lock, harvesting that premium smoke. Every batch was fire, and the demand was sky-high. When he opened shop, it was standing room only. But since he handed the keys to Kyle Neptune and Ashley Howard? They serving “mid” now. And for hoopheads used to that top-tier Pavilion smoke, “mid” just don’t cut it.
But here’s the real deal, the not-so-secret secret. If you’re a true Philly hoophead, you know where to go: 3301 Solly Avenue in the Northeast and downtown at Broad and Vine. That’s where the real fire is. I copped some tonight, and let me tell you, it’s the truth.
While the Sixers and these D1 programs keep letting us down, the Philadelphia Catholic League? They holding it down. Night in, night out, these young boys are serving the best smoke in the city. Roman, Catholic, Devon Prep, Father Judge and St. Joseph’s Prep—they all got that high-end, Grade-A Kush. No laced-up, fake-ass product here. The gyms are packed, the lights are bright, and the smoke is pure. The PCL is keeping Philly hoops alive while the big boys keep dropping the ball.
So, if you’re a real hoophead looking for that fix, skip Wells Fargo and these college programs. Head to the Palestra on Sunday for Catholic League Championship. That’s where you’ll find the finest smoke this city has to offer. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed.
The story of St. Joseph’s Prep’s stunning victory over nationally ranked and defending Philadelphia Catholic League champion Roman Catholic feels almost biblical in its scope. Over the decade I’ve known St. Joseph’s Prep Head Coach Jason Harrigan, his coaching exploits have often reminded me of the tale of David and Goliath. Last night, Harrigan’s Hawks summoned the courage and tenacity to topple a seemingly insurmountable giant, leaving me contemplating the famous passage from 1 Samuel 17.
Jordan Ellerbie, St. Joseph’s Prep
The game, initially scheduled for the Horowitz “Sixth Man” Center, was moved to Bensalem High School due to lingering HVAC issues. Despite the change in venue, the anticipation remained high as Harrigan’s Hawks faced off against Chris McNesby’s mighty Cahillites. Roman Catholic, with their powerhouse roster and Broad Street swagger, seemed poised to extend their reign. But Harrigan, and Jordan Ellerbie, like the young shepherd David, were ready to defy expectations.
The Battle on the Hardwood
The game itself was a physical slugfest, akin to a battle between two heavyweight boxers exchanging body blows. Neither team could find an offensive rhythm, which only underscored the meticulous preparation and defensive schemes orchestrated by Harrigan and McNesby. The intensity on the court was palpable, as every possession felt like a struggle for survival.
Chris McNesby, Roman Catholic Head Coach
Roman’s Shareef Jackson, a sturdy 6’8” Lafayette commit, has long been the league’s dominant force. His imposing presence and exceptional low-post technique make him nearly unguardable at the high school level. Yet, Harrigan devised a strategy to neutralize Jackson, deploying constant double-teams and relentless physical play to disrupt his rhythm. Jackson was held to a mere six points—a testament to Harrigan’s tactical brilliance.
Shareef’s younger brother, Sammy, also struggled offensively, going 0-for-7 from the field. With Marquette Head Coach, Shaka Smart, in the stands, less than 24 hours after vanquishing Thomas Sorber and the Georgetown Hoyas, Sammy could not make a shot while playing a solid and unselfish floor game. Roman’s mercurial sophomore point guard, Tyler Sutton, managed only eight points on 3-for-12 shooting. Senior guard Sebastian Edwards emerged as Roman’s most effective scorer with 13 points, including three crucial three-pointers, but even his efforts weren’t enough to overcome the relentless Hawks.
Ellerbie and Jason Harrigan
Ellerbie’s Heroics and Harrigan’s Vision
The game’s defining moment came from Florida Gulf Coast commit Ellerbie. With the game on the line, he delivered a masterclass in clutch play, scoring a game-high 16 points and sealing the victory with a left-handed baseline finger roll as time expired. It was a play that echoed David’s decisive sling stone, felling the mighty Goliath.
Just as David chose his simple shepherd’s tools over Saul’s heavy armor, Harrigan relied on grit, discipline, strategic ingenuity and some big fuckin’ balls. His ability to inspire his players to rise above their limitations has been a hallmark of his coaching career. Nine years ago, Harrigan led an unheralded Del Val Charter squad to a stunning victory over nationally ranked Imhotep Charter in the District 12 3A final. Last night, he did it again, proving that no opponent is invincible when preparation meets belief.
Shifting Power Dynamics in the Catholic League
Roman Catholic’s dominance over the past quarter-century has bred a sense of entitlement among its fans. The Cahillites have often dismissed their Catholic League rivals, with only Neumann-Goretti and occasionally Archbishop Wood posing serious threats. However, the winds of change seem to be blowing through the league.
As of now, St. Joseph’s Prep, Cardinal O’Hara, and Father Judge boast perfect 3-0 records, while Bonner-Prendie sits at 2-0. Conversely, traditional powerhouses like Archbishop Wood (0-3), Archbishop Carroll (0-3), and Neumann-Goretti (0-2) are struggling. Even Archbishop Ryan narrowly avoided a disastrous 0-3 start with a historic comeback. Meanwhile, Father Judge defeated Imhotep on a neutral court, and Devon Prep appears ready to challenge for a seat at the Catholic League’s top table.
St. Joseph’s Prep’s victory over Roman Catholic may portend a potential paradigm shift in the Catholic League. Under Jason Harrigan’s leadership, the undersized Hawks are emerging a symbol of resilience and strategic excellence. His ability to slay giants has not only reinvigorated the program but has also disrupted the established power dynamics of the league.
For one night, at least, David triumphed over Goliath. The question now is whether Harrigan’s Hawks or the other rising contenders can sustain this momentum and usher in a new era of Catholic League basketball. Regardless, one thing is certain: Jason Harrigan can slay a national power, and the story of St. Joseph’s Prep’s victory will be told for years to come.
PHILADELPHIA, PA – Philly youth and high school is dominated by conventional wisdom, high-profile high school transfers and shoe-sponsored travel teams often dictate the trajectory of a young player’s career. However, two guys from South Philly, Aasim “Flash” Burton and his mentor, Shon Minnis, have crafted a path that seems to echo Robert Frost’s timeless reflection in his 1916 poem The Road Not Taken. Every decision made by Burton and guided by Minnis over the past five years could be characterized as a deliberate divergence from the norms of Philly basketball’s unforgiving system. Each choice was calculated, often scrutinized, and yet, in the end, remarkably effective.
The First Fork in the Road
Burton’s journey, one marked by thoughtful strategy rather than flashy optics, began when he was a very talented eighth grader with undeniable talent and a world of options. His decision to attend Math, Civics, and Sciences (MCS)Charter High School—a school with a respectable basketball pedigree but outside the traditional powerhouse orbit of Imhotep Charter or the Catholic League giants Roman Catholic and Neumann-Goretti—was met with skepticism.
Why you sending him there?
Why not join a program guaranteed to compete for championships in the fabled Palestra? Why not be part of one of the machines that churn out Division I prospects year after year? The answer, as Minnis would later explain, was rooted in a long-term vision. At MCS, Burton would play meaningful minutes early in his career, honing his skills against strong competition without being buried on a deep bench. The short-term objective was to actually PLAY meaningful games and develop a nuanced feel for the intricacies of the game and not become another workout warrior. Minnis understands that chairs and cones don’t play defense. For two years, Burton thrived at MCS, developing into a multi-dimensional player who could not just contribute but lead.
Another Road Less Traveled
As he entered his junior year, Burton and Minnis decided to pivot. This time, they sought the rigor of the Philadelphia Catholic League, but once again, their choice raised eyebrows. Instead of transferring to Roman Catholic, Neumann-Goretti, or another storied program like Archbishop Wood, Burton enrolled at Cardinal O’Hara—a program more often seen as an underdog than a contender.
This move seemed, to some, like a misstep. Minnis was told by prominent members of the local basketball aristocracy that he was “fucking up” Burton’s opportunity to land a division 1 scholarship. The naysayers LOUDLY noted that O’Hara lacked the glitz and glamour of Imhotep or the Catholic League’s traditional powers, but Minnis saw opportunity where others saw mediocrity. At O’Hara, Burton would have the chance to shoulder the load, to truly grow into his role as a point guard and leader. It was a choice emblematic of Minnis’s philosophy: prioritize substance over style, development over hype.
A Different Kind of Summer
Then came the summers, where the stakes in grassroots basketball are, arguably, higher than during the high school season. Kids play in front of hundreds of college coaches and scouts at a time instead of the 2 or 3 that might attend a good scholastic game. In Philly and other basketball hotbeds like Baltimore, Washington, D.C. and New York/North Jersey, most elite prospects gravitate toward Nike’s EYBL, Adidas’s 3SSB, or Under Armour’s UAA Circuit. Burton had already scratched his shoe company itch the previous year by dabbling with Team Final, a Nike EYBL powerhouse, enjoying the spoils of elite competition and coveted swag. He had a closet full of flip flops, headbands, shorts and, of course, the shoes. But when faced with the choice of returning to Team Final or joining another shoe-sponsored team, Burton, with Minnis’s counsel, opted for East Coast Power, an independent club based in King of Prussia.
They took the road less traveled…
This decision, like the others, was rooted in pragmatism. Playing for East Coast Power meant guaranteed playing time, a chance to truly command the floor as a point guard, and focused, personalized attention from coaches who prioritized his development for the next level. It also meant stepping away from the spotlight that many young players covet. But as Minnis often reminded Burton, the goal wasn’t to chase fleeting validation but to build an impactful and sustainable college career.
By the end of summer and just before the onset of his senior year, Burton’s unconventional choices were beginning to pay off. He had developed into a polished floor general, capable of running an offense and playing with poise under pressure. The work done by East Coast Power’s staff, coupled with Burton’s own maturity and growth, attracted interest from a host of mid-major programs. And when Rider University came calling, Burton and Minnis knew it was the right fit.
The Commitment
Burton’s decision to commit to Rider before his senior season was yet another departure from the norm. Many players in his position, with multiple mid-major offers, might have held out, hoping for offers from schools in higher-profile conferences like the Atlantic 10, the American Athletic or even the Big East. But Burton trusted his instincts and leaned into a philosophy that Minnis instilled in him and served him well: choose the place that truly wants—and needs—you.
These South Philly Muthafuckas truly blocked out all the noise…
Rider offered Burton not just a scholarship but a clear vision for his role within the program. Head Coach Kevin Baggett made it clear that Burton wasn’t just a recruit; he was a cornerstone for the team’s future. Burton appreciated the brutal honesty of Rider Assistant Coaches Geoff Arnold and Dino Presley. These guys are incapable of sugarcoating anything related to basketball. Minnis, ever the realist, tempered expectations but remained confident. Before the start of Burton’s freshman campaign, Minnis predicted, “He’s not gonna be ready to start the first game,” Minnis said, “but he’ll be starting by the time they begin playing league games.”
Tonight… True to Minnis’s prediction, Burton made his first collegiate start in just his 10th college, and 2nd MAAC league, game. The man knows his protege… His performance thus far suggests he will be a fixture in Rider’s lineup for years to come—a testament to the power of patient, deliberate choices in a world often obsessed with instant gratification.
The relationship between Burton and Minnis has been central to this journey. Minnis, a self-described “basketball lifer” with a quiet wisdom honed through decades in the game, has been the steady hand guiding Burton through a labyrinth of pressures and expectations. Minnis’s experiences navigating the high school and college recruiting processes for his own son, Biggie Minnis (Texas Tech, Rhode Island and Wright State), and stepson, Jamir Hanner (Marshall and Buffalo), gave him the perspective needed to help Burton avoid common pitfalls.
At every juncture, the two have chosen what Frost might call “the road less traveled.” And as Frost so poignantly concluded, “that has made all the difference.” For Burton, the difference isn’t just about where he is today but the foundation he has built for the future—a foundation rooted in authenticity, hard work, and a refusal to conform for conformity’s sake.
In an era where basketball decisions are often dictated by trends and peer pressure, Flash Burton and Shon Minnis have shown that there is another way. Their story is not just a basketball story; it’s a story of trust, vision, and the courage to forge one’s own path. And in doing so, they remind us that the road less traveled, though fraught with challenges, often leads to the most rewarding destinations.
SureAthlete Sponsors Broadcasts of Elite Mid-Atlantic Region HS Basketball Games
CAMDEN, New Jersey, November 17, 2022 – Black Cager Sports Television (BCS TV) is pleased to announce SureAthlete as an official sponsor for an exciting lineup high school basketball broadcasts featuring some of the top teams and players in the nation. BCS TV has announced the schedule of 25 regular season games to be broadcast on BlackCagerTV.com and YouTube during the upcoming 2022-23 season. The slate, which will feature teams from the Philadelphia Catholic League, Delaware, New Jersey, Chester County and Berks County, begins with a pair of games between Westtown and Perkiomen as well as West Nottingham and Olympus on Wednesday, November 30. On Friday, December 2, BCS TV will showcase the Catholic League’s Archbishop Carroll in their home opener when they face Penn Wood at 6:00 p.m. ET.
“Our expanded relationship with SureAthlete will allow BCS TV to continue to providing exposure for Philadelphia Catholic League teams and athletes across all platforms. This will help expose not just the Catholic League but high school basketball in the Mid-Atllantic region to a larger audience of fans throughout the winter,” said BCS TV Executive Director Delgreco Wilson. “This schedule, along with our spring and summer events, will help us raise the bar, and the enterprise value, for all. We can’t wait to get the season started.”
“SureAthlete is honored to serve as an official sponsor for the BCS TV broadcasts of High School basketball,” said Sean Flynn, SureAthlete, CEO. “We collect and synthesize critical athlete data to derive predictive insights and deliver prescriptive actions for every coach, athlete and mission-critical staff member. While our programs were developed for professional, collegiate and Olympic sports organizations, we are excited to begin working with high school coaches and athletes in the Mid-Atlantic region and beyond.”
Black Cager Sports has a proven track record of encouraging and inspiring high school student-athletes as they transition to the college and professional ranks. SureAthlete exists to create a landscape where student-athletes are sure of themselves and high school/college programs are sure of their student-athletes.
“We’re excited for the opportunity to follow up on our extensive coverage of Catholic League Basketball last season with the SureAthlete’s sponsorship,” added Wilson. “Leveraging our partnership with top Catholic League programs works to help area student-athletes gain exposure and compete for college basketball scholarships.”
About SureAthlete SureAthlete is a talent management and people analytics platform used by world-class sports organizations, such as MLB, NFL, NBA,WNBA and NHL. The platform uniquely synthesizes Prism psychometrics, athlete feedback and performance data to derive predictive insights and deliver prescriptive actions for leadership development, team optimization, talent management and digital learning & development. SureAthlete transforms roster management into a more data-driven, strategic function — from an art to a science — and measurably elevates individual, team and organizational performance.
About Black Cager Sports Television Black Cager Sports Television (BCS TV) is an industry-leading sports streaming service that offers fans in the Mid-Atlantic region live sports events, original programming sports talk and exclusive editorial content from Black Cager Sports writers and analysts. Launched in September 2013, Black Cager Sports generates over 250,000 views annually.
About the Philadelphia Catholic League The Philadelphia Catholic League (PCL) was founded in the summer of 1920. The PCL features several nationally recognized basketball programs such as Roman Catholic, Neumman-Goretti, Archbishop Wood, Archbishop Ryan and West Catholic. The PCL season culminates with an annual Final Four and Championship at the fabled Palestra, located on the campus of the University of Pennsylvania.
Zion Stanford is a muthafucka… With him in the lineup early in the game against Roman Catholic, West Catholic was cruising and in control. Then with about 6:00 minutes left in the first half, Stanford picked up his 2nd personal foul. West Catholic Coach Miguel Bocachica decided to bench his star for remainder of the first half.
Over the course of the next six minutes, an eight point West Catholic lead evaporated and then became a five point halftime deficit.
Essentially… that was it…
Even when Stanford returned for the start of the second half, West Catholic was unable to regain control of the game. Cincinnati commit Daniel Skillings, Jr. demonstrated why some consider him the finest player in the City of Philadelphia. Skillings had 25 points, grabbed nine tough rebounds and blocked four shots in a magnificent performance against a very talented West Catholic squad.
Xzayvier Brown, Roman Catholic PG
Some of the credit for the point swing after Stanford’s second foul has to go to Roman Catholic’s new and old Head Coach Chris McNesby and his outstanding point guard Xzayvier Brown ’23. McNesby and Brown recognized that West Catholic was switching on the perimeter and on three consecutive possessions they waited until Brown was matched up with West Catholic big man Nasir Griffin trying to contain him at the top of the key.
Brown, a high major PG prospect, used a variety of step-back, in and out and crossover moves to create space and score. It was working and McNesby stuck with it. Also, in the third quarter, with Stanford on the floor, McNesby and the Cahillites went to rookie Shareef Jackson in the post and he was able draw a third foul on Stanford.
Dan Skillings, Roman Catholic
Saddled with foul trouble most of the night, Stanford was unable to play with his usual reckless abandon.
While he scored 12 points and had a spectacular blocked shot, Stanford was unable to really reimpose himself on the game. Adam “Bud” Clark tried to pick up the offensive slack while constantly probing the Roman Catholic defense on his way to scoring 20 points.
Maybe West Catholic will run into Roman Catholic again… Maybe next time Stanford can avoid foul trouble next time… Maybe things will be different… But, then again maybe not…
One thing for sure, Roman will have their own muthafucka in uniform by then. And, he used to play for West Catholic. Today, Anthony Finklea a 6’7” 220 lb power forward, ranked in the top 150 by Rivals, sat on the Roman bench in street clothes. Pretty soon, he will be on the floor. Already a tough out, when Roman adds Finklea’s skill, size, toughness and determination they will become the clear favorite to take yet another Catholic League title.
As it stands Archbishop Wood (5-0) is the lone unbeaten team in the Catholic League. Roman (6-1), West (5-1) and Archbishop Ryan (4-1) each have one loss. Neumann-Goretti (1-0) has only played one game. Ryan travels to Wood Monday night and Neumann-Goretti goes to West on Wednesday.
Ryan and West need to find a way to win these games. Roman, Neumann-Goretti and recently Wood have had a stranglehold on the Catholic League Championship. West and Ryan are the upstarts… They’ve been knocking on the door for a few years now…
Nobody is in a hurry to let them in…
It’s an exclusive club… Carl Arrigale, Chris McNesby and John Mosco are cardholding members. Miguel Boc and Joe Zeglinski are trying hard to get in… Membership requires that Ryan and West start beating Roman, Neumann-Goretti and Wood when it counts… Didn’t happen today… Joe gets a shot at John tomorrow and Boc gets a shot at Carl on Wednesday…
I wish things would return to normal. This is really my favorite time of year. If we had actually been able to “limit the cases to 15 and they soon reached zero” back in the Spring, I would be traveling up and down 95 visiting high school and college gyms.
I would be trying to get a feel for this years version of high school programs like DeMatha (MD), Woodrow Wilson (DC), Paul VI (VA), St. Frances (MD), Sanford (DE), Chester (PA), Trenton Catholic (NJ), Atlantic City (NJ) and Immaculate Conception (NJ). I would be visiting college programs like VCU, Georgetown, George Washington, Maryland, Howard, Morgan State, Delaware, Delaware State, Seton Hall, Penn State, Rutgers, Monmouth and Rider.
Who’s up next? Who’s gonna break out? Which programs are gonna win state championships? Which programs are gonna make the NCAA tournament?
Unfortunately, he lied… Coronavirus didn’t just miraculously disappear when summer rolled around. Moreover, he continues to BULL SHIT all of us…
“We are turning the corner…”
Get the fuck outta here!
The situation is worse than ever… Hospitals all across the nation are close to capacity and talking about rationing medical care.
So… No trips up and down 95… No sneak peeks at the top programs…
Times are hard for hoopheads.
Imagine my surprise when I heard there was a good game scheduled tonight. We all know the schools are NOT currently playing. We ALL know that the PIAA and the NJSIAA are trying to figure out a way forward.
So… this was NOT a HS basketball game…
But, somehow, someway… mystically, magically and fortuitously the players from two of the top high school programs just happened to meet up at 3640 G Street at 7:00 pm.
Who know how these things happen? Who gives a fuck?
For degenerate hoopheads like myself, the only thing that matters is there was actual competitive basketball to be witnessed.
No cheerleaders… No matching uniforms… No Public Address announcer…
Just 20 or so super-talented and highly motivated players, a couple of referees, a scorekeeper and someone at the door pointing a thermometer at every skull that entered the door.
Just so happened that this particular “club” matchup featured players from Archbishop Ryan playing against players from Camden High School.
On August 4, Black Cager released a “Way too soon Top 5 High School Programs” in the Greater Philadelphia Region. On that list, Camden was number 1 and Archbishop Ryan was number 5. That made this game a battle between 2 of the top contenders for mythical Black Cager Pound for Pound title.
This setting, while not ideal, certainly serves a purpose. Kids that have been effectively banned from getting together in their school gymnasiums are able to convene and actually play structured basketball. Prospects seeking to leverage their basketball abilities for access to higher education get to put a performance on film for college coaches that have been chained to their desks since March. The importance of the video cannot be overstated.
All indications are that Division 1 basketball coach will not be allowed to evaluate prospects in person until April 2021 at the earliest. That means that current HS kids will go a full year of playing without college coaches in the stands.
Good video right now could result in anywhere from $200,000 to $320,000 being made available to a family for educational related expenses.
This shit matters…
It should be noted that I am blessed and favored… I have tremendous relationships with many of the kids and parents navigating the recruitment process right now. Prior to this game, I called Ryan combo guard Jalen Snead ’22 and reminded him that he was going to be matched up against DJ Wagner, the Number 1 player in the Class of 2023. In a very direct and forceful manner, I let him know that I expect him to demonstrate that he is severely underrated by meeting that challenge.
Jalen Snead, ’22 Ryan Combo Guard
I also called, Rodney Warren, the father of Aaron Lemon-Warren and let him know I would give him call after the game. He works out of town and could not be in attendance.
I speak with Taquan Woodley every day. We never really discuss his performance. Mostly because there’s really very little variation from game to game… Double-Double with about 4-6 blocks… Book it…
I come in the gym and I see, Bill and Beth Tomasco, parents of Ryan PF Christian Tomasco ‘21. Christian was one of the biggest free agent pick ups of the past off season. While he has a D1 offer and plenty of D1 interest, he wants to demonstrate that he ranks among the best players still on the board. After warmly greeting the Tomascos, I see Christian seated about four feet away from his folk…
“Muthafucka… This is what you wanted!”
I sit next to Christian and remind him that there will be video from this game. I also note that Woodley is, perhaps, the premier BIG still on the table in the class of ’21. A strong performance against Woodley would certainly help Tomasco increase his stature.
A few minutes later, the game gets underway…
As one would expect from a group of kids unable to access their gyms and practice on a consistent basis, the play is a little uneven and ragged at times. But the effort and talent are there for all to see.
Luke Boyd, ’22 Ryan Shooting Guard
Ryan jumps out to a double digit lead early. As usual, sharpshooter Luke Boyd is dialed in… Boyd would finish with a game high 19 points with 5 3-pointers and 3 rebounders. Ivy and Patriot League programs would be wise to reach out to Boyd. A few weeks ago he dropped 22 against Nationally Ranked St. Frances (MD). A pattern is emerging… Big shots from deep in big games…
Snead was relishing his opportunity to play against the best player in the Class of 2023 and one of the premier guards in the country regardless of class.
Last year… Snead was named 1st team All-Muthafucka by Black Cager Sports Media… The Baller TV viewers and those in attendance got to see for themselves how he earned that designation. Exceedingly quick, with long arms he is an excellent defender. He harassed Wagner from start to finish. He was able to consistently stay in front of him, he blocked his shot, he disrupted his dribble… Basically… Snead was a muthafucka defensively…
His stat line for the game was typical Snead… 4 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 1 block.
DJ Wagner, ’23 Camden HS Combo Guard, ESPN #1 2023
Of course, the uber-talented Wagner would have his moments on his way to solid 13 points, 2 steals and 1 assist. What remains the most impressive aspect of Wagner’s game is his mental toughness. Even when the shots are not falling, he continues to ferociously defend and make plays for his teammates. As a sophomore, Wagner is one of the most mature players I’ve seen in recent years.
Snead, in the opinion of this observer demonstrated clearly that he is a bona fide Division 1 prospect.
Tomasco did what he was supposed to do.
He ran the floor very well. He showed some range from the beyond the 3 point line. Against one the most formidable front courts in the nation, he finished with 15 points, 12 rebounds, 2 blocks and 2 assists.
Looking ahead and assuming there will be a high school basketball season, Tomasco adds a dimension to this Ryan club that makes them a real contender to return to the Catholic League Final Four for the 4th time in 6 years and maybe take the title back to the far Northeast this year.
Players from Archbishop Ryan
Still working himself into form, Lemon-Warren was solid with 15 points, 8 rebounds and 4 assists. He is just a complete basketball player. With practice and increased reps, he will be one of the contenders for Catholic League MVP.
As the game wore on, the difference was the relentless pressure on the boards applied by Taquan Woodley (14 points) and Jerome Brewer (17 points). After deploying a full court press to disrupt the early offensive flow of Ryan, Camden’s big duo dominated the boards in the second half.
Now a senior, Woodley has evolved from a high energy super athletic defensive force into a cerebral leader of this version of the Camden Panthers. He is playing the game at his own pace, making sure his teammates are in the correct positions on both ends of the floor, protecting the rim and scoring big buckets when needed.
Taquan Woodley, ’21 Camden HS PF
Earlier today, Woodley formally decommitted from Penn State. Thus far, he has been contacted by La Salle, St. Joseph’s, Temple, St. John’s, Mississippi State, Seton Hall, Georgia, South Carolina, Virginia Tech, Auburn, SMU, VCU and Akron.
He is clearly the “bad bitch” at the bar… Right now, everyone wants to buy him a drink and take him home.
But the best part of my day came when I got home. Earlier, I had gave my friend Gerald Holmes a heads up… Holmes is the highly successful Had Coach of the Division 2 Bloomfield College basketball program in New Jersey. Told him he could catch this game on Baller TV. Always working, Holmes watched intently.
Then at exactly 8:24 pm… A potential 6 figure conversation began…
A great game… indeed!
Thank you Difference Makers, The Miller Report and FiDonce Basketball Player Development…
The Black Cager 