Brooklyn, N.Y. — In a thrilling display of talent, senior Chris Albano scored a career-high 41 points, leading Susan Wagner to an 89-72 victory over Erasmus in a PSAL 4A Brooklyn-Staten Island division matchup on March 16, 2024. Albano’s performance included 16 field goals, five of which came from three-point range, solidifying his status as a key player for the Falcons.
The game saw contributions from several teammates as well. Charles Gambino added 16 points, while Clevi Hoxha and Darin Humes-James chipped in with 10 and nine points, respectively. The Falcons improved their overall record to 14-6, with a league standing of 7-4. For Erasmus, Jaydel Martinez and Jesse Davis scored 24 and 19 points, respectively.
“It was a good result to finish a very challenging week,” said Susan Wagner head coach Danny Lanigan. He acknowledged the team’s defensive struggles but praised Albano’s standout performance, especially as other shooters faced difficulties. With Albano contributing 17 points and Humes-James nine, the Falcons led 41-34 at halftime. In the second half, Albano dominated with 24 points, helping his team secure the win.
Rowland Leads Petrides to Victory
In another exciting game, Daynell Rowland scored a game-high 39 points, guiding Petrides to a 70-63 victory over FDR. Rowland, who had been benched in the first quarter for missing practice, showcased resilience and determination. He made six three-pointers and converted 9 of 12 free-throw attempts, marking his fifth game this season with over 30 points.
The Panthers held a narrow 49-47 lead entering the final quarter. Rowland’s explosive fourth-quarter performance included 18 points, sealing the win for Petrides. Aiden Gonzalez contributed 10 points, while FDR’s Kristopher Galarza led his team with 19 points.
Hanley Propels Farrell to Close Win
On Staten Island, Ryan Hanley continued his impressive season, scoring 24 points and grabbing 11 rebounds as Farrell edged out Fordham Prep 53-47 in a CHSAA A matchup. Hanley’s performance marked a second consecutive game where he surpassed his previous career high.
Hanley contributed significantly to the Lions’ late-game surge, scoring off a high-low feed from Jack Gomez with just over two minutes remaining. His free-throw shooting proved crucial, as he went 4 for 4 from the line in the final moments. Senior JJ Yates added 15 points, and the Lions improved their record to 8-7 overall.
Despite a stellar performance from Fordham Prep’s Brian Kapfer, who scored a game-high 30 points, Farrell’s late run allowed them to avenge an earlier season loss to the Rams.
SIA Remains Undefeated with a Dominating Performance
The Staten Island Academy Tigers continued their remarkable season, winning 70-48 against Eagle Academy. With this victory, the Tigers improved their record to 16-0, marking their best start in school history.
Luke DeVito led the Tigers with 22 points, while teammates Johan Wielens and Gabe Moschella contributed 11 points each. The Tigers took control of the game with a decisive 10-0 run in the second quarter, which allowed them to build a comfortable lead.
“This was the end of a grueling stretch,” remarked Tigers head coach Mike Mazella, referring to the team’s five games in eight days. The Tigers will have a brief break before a crucial match against Dwight.
In junior varsity action, Susan Wagner secured a narrow victory over Achievement First, winning 39-35 with Jayden Acea leading the way with 15 points. The Falcons, who trailed at halftime, rallied in the second half to clinch the win.
These performances highlight the intensity and competitive spirit of high school basketball in the region, with players showcasing their skills and determination on the court.