Bergen Catholic Clamps Down in Second Half, Powers Past Patrick School

photo by: Anthony Ferrara | coverage by: Marco Morales

When two of the top teams in the state meet, the margin for error is razor thin. Bergen Catholic, the top-ranked NJSIAA program, welcomed The Patrick School, widely regarded as one of the top teams outside the association structure, in a matchup that felt intense from start to finish. After a fast-paced first half controlled by the Celtics, it was Bergen Catholic that made the necessary adjustments, tightening up defensively and pulling away late for a 64–54 win.

The Patrick School set the tone early by pushing tempo and attacking in transition. Freshman Flory Kuminga was a spark from the jump, running the floor and finishing through contact, while former Roselle Catholic big man Eric Hillsman knocked down timely shots to keep the Crusaders on their heels. TPS exploded for 25 points in the opening quarter and carried that energy into halftime, using speed and transition opportunities to dictate the rhythm.

The second half told a different story. Bergen Catholic’s defense locked in, cutting off passing lanes and eliminating the easy transition baskets that fueled the Celtics in the first half. The Crusaders forced TPS into half-court possessions and contested nearly every look. That defensive shift flipped the momentum and opened the door for Bergen’s playmakers to take control.

With under three minutes remaining and the game still within reach, Avent rose for a powerful dunk that electrified the crowd and swung full momentum in Bergen’s favor. Moments later, Owusu added another emphatic finish as time expired, punctuating a decisive second half performance. Bergen outscored TPS 35–19 after the break, showing defensive discipline and execution down the stretch.

Jaden Brown delivered when it mattered most. The junior guard was stellar in the second half, finishing with a game-high 20 points and knocking down key shots that gave Bergen its first lead of the game. His composure stood out as the pressure mounted, calmly attacking gaps in the defense and converting at the free-throw line. Julius Avent added 18 points, nine made free throws, and contributed across the board with four assists and two steals, while Brandon McMillan dominated the glass with 12 rebounds. Jahlil Owusu provided balance inside, scoring 14 points and finishing strong around the rim.

The Crusaders did not panic when the game tilted early. They adjusted, trusted their system, and relied on their depth and defensive identity. Against one of the most talented teams in the state, Bergen Catholic proved why it sits at the top of the NJSIAA rankings. When the pace slowed and the game tightened, the Crusaders were the tougher, more composed team, and that made all the difference.