The Jackson senior boys travel basketball team’s attempt to defend its 1999-2000 Mid Monmouth Basketball League Championship fell just short as they lost in the semifinals to the eventual champion, Old Bridge, 61-56. The game marked the second time Old Bridge had earned a close victory over Jackson.
In the semifinal loss, Jackson was led by Jed Marquez and Stan Paluski, who each had seven points. Shandron Howard had 12 points on 4-4 shooting from three-point range. James Shinn had 167 rebounds to go along with eight points.
Jackson led by five points after three periods; however, Justin Linkletter scored eight points off the bench to spark the Knights.
Jackson finished the regular season with a record of 10-2, an improvement on last year’s 9-3 record. This season marked the third straight year the senior boys have made it to the Final Four of the 28-team league. Last year’s championship season was capped off with a thrilling overtime win over Millstone.
Head coach Tim Brown was very pleased with his team’s effort throughout the year.
"This year’s team was very different from some of my other squads," he said. "We had a tremendous scoring threat in Marquez, and a group of very unselfish players that all understood their roles on the team. They each knew what they needed to do to support and contribute to our success.
"The thing that really impressed me about these boys is their passion for the game," he said. "Two seasons ago they struggled through a year where they finished with a 1-15 record. Instead of feeling sorry for themselves, they worked very hard to improve. I’d have to say they’ve succeeded."
Brown complimented all his players.
"Shinn, Joe Bruno, Mike Schoch and Jeff Brown dominated almost every game on the boards," he said. "Our backcourt improved dramatically throughout the season with Joe Arneth, Paluski, Doug Barry, Connor Wegner, Kyle Kelly and Howard all earning their stripes.
"Anthony Ranaudo also made great strides this season," the coach added. "He has the ability to play both the guard and forward [positions], and still has two years of eligibility left with the team."
Brown has most of his players back next year, with the exception of Arneth.
"Losing Joe will be tough," he said. "He played with the type of poise that the younger guys fed off of."
Brown is assisted by Vin Squeo and Jim Bezanson.