UPDATE: In a thrilling showdown on January 6, 2024, Staten Island high school basketball delivered standout performances as Chris Albano and Nick Rebracca led their respective teams to crucial victories.
Albano delivered a game-changing performance, scoring 24 points and clinching the win for Susan Wagner with a 63-55 comeback against New Dorp in Sea View. The Falcons improved to 10-2 overall, rallying from behind in the final quarter where Albano scored nine pivotal points. His clutch play included a three-point play and sinking 5 of 7 free throws, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
Meanwhile, Rebracca matched his career high with 28 points as Sea secured a decisive 73-52 victory over Salesian. The junior swingman was a force on the court, hitting six three-pointers and leading the Vikings to their third straight win, boosting their league record to 5-2.
“New Dorp is a very talented team, and we knew they would play with great spirit today,” said Susan Wagner head coach Danny Lanigan. His team faced challenges after a high-stakes win against Lincoln earlier in the week but managed to pull through, demonstrating resilience and skill when it mattered most.
The Falcons trailed at multiple points during the game, notably at the end of the first quarter (16-15) and halftime (30-28). However, they outscored New Dorp by 10 points in the final quarter, solidifying their victory.
Rebracca’s performance was equally impressive, with Sea dominating early in the game. The Vikings took a commanding lead of 19-4 in the first quarter, thanks to a combination of strong defense and timely scoring. Rebracca’s early contributions, alongside key performances from teammates Nick Lee and Luca Mineo, paved the way for an unstoppable pace that Salesian could not match.
In other action, Taylor Allderdice edged St. Peter’s 52-45 in Pittsburgh, with Nico Parlanti leading the charge with 17 points. Although St. Peter’s attempted a late comeback, they fell short as Allderdice maintained its lead throughout the game.
WHEELS overcame Eagle Academy SI with a score of 61-43, thanks to a solid third-quarter effort that put the game out of reach. Miguel Martinez led WHEELS with 15 points in a match that highlighted the Wolves’ defensive prowess.
As the season progresses, fans are eager to see if Albano and Rebracca can continue their scoring streaks, potentially setting the stage for an exciting postseason. Both players are proving to be vital assets for their teams, and their performances will be crucial in upcoming matchups.
Stay tuned for more updates and highlights as Staten Island high school basketball continues to unfold with thrilling performances and dramatic finishes.
