Neumann-Goretti defeated Roman Catholic, 62-60, on Wednesday night in an exciting Catholic League semifinal playoff basketball game at the Palestra.
“Another Catholic League classic at the Palestra,” said veteran coach Carl Arrigale, likening the N-G/Roman rivalry to Duke/North Carolina. “Everybody got their money’s worth.”
Sophomore guard Rob Wright III led the Saints with 20 points. Another sophomore guard, Khaafiq Myers, added 16 points.
“They’re two terrific kids and two terrific basketball players,” Arrigale said.
The Saints [16-4] advanced to Monday’s championship game against Archbishop Ryan, a 59-55 winner over West Catholic in the second game.
Daniel Skillings scored a game-high 23 points for Roman [18-4]. Teammate Khalil Farmer added 17. The Cahillites beat the Saints, 64-55, earlier this season.
“We were fired up to play against the best of the best,” Myers said.
Playing at the Palestra was special for the Saints.
“I was honored to be on the court and giving my all,” Wright said.
N-G faced Ryan earlier this month, winning, 52-49.
Monday’s rematch at the Palestra starts at 8 p.m., following the girls championship game between Archbishop Carroll and Cardinal O’Hara.
