UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime finish, senior Chris Albano hit a last-second jumper to clinch an 81-79 victory for Susan Wagner over Abraham Lincoln on January 25, 2024, in Brooklyn, NY. This nail-biting game marked Wagner’s third consecutive win, solidifying their record at 9-2 overall and 4-2 in league play.
The game was a rollercoaster with Albano delivering a career-high 34 points, including three three-pointers. The Falcons had to fight hard, as they faced a formidable Lincoln team that pushed the contest into overtime after a late-game rally.
With just seconds left in regulation, Lincoln’s Marquise Lloyd tied the game at 70-70, forcing overtime. “We controlled a lot of the fourth,” said head coach Danny Lanigan. “But every time we looked to secure the win, they made the right cut, the right pass and just fought to get the game to OT.”
During the tense overtime period, Albano scored four crucial points while his teammate Charles Gambino added another four. With the Falcons leading 79-77 in the closing seconds, Lloyd made two free throws for Lincoln, setting the stage for Albano’s heroics.
“Just an absolute tour de force performance from start to finish,” praised Lanigan, highlighting Albano’s stamina and skill as he played the full 36 minutes.
As the clock wound down, Albano dribbled up the left side and executed a step-back jumper that swished through the net just as time expired. This stunning finish left Lincoln with no timeouts and clinched a significant victory for Wagner.
Albano’s standout performance not only marked a personal achievement but also served as a crucial win against a rival that has historically challenged Wagner. “Lincoln has been a thorn in our side since we joined the division,” Lanigan noted, reflecting on their previous losses against the Railsplitters.
Meanwhile, Lincoln’s Jace Parris led his team with 23 points, supported by Lloyd with 16 points. Despite their strong offensive efforts, they fell short in a game that showcased the intensity of high school basketball.
Next, Wagner aims to continue their winning streak, while Lincoln will seek to regroup and bounce back in their upcoming games. Fans can expect more thrilling matchups as the season unfolds.
Other Notable Games:
In a separate PSAL 3A matchup, Tottenville edged past Eagle Academy with a score of 64-61, remaining undefeated in league play with a 6-0 record. Shiloh Ezderman led Tottenville with 19 points.
Stay tuned for more updates on local high school basketball as the season heats up. These games are not just about scores; they are about passion, resilience, and the thrill of competition.
