The Ranney School, which was without two starters due to injuries, could not keep up with the state’s top-ranked boys’ basketball team, Roselle Catholic High School, when the two powers met recently in the Jersey Shore Challenge.
The showdown was played at Brookdale Community College in Lincroft on Jan. 31, and Roselle Catholic emerged with a convincing 75-49 victory.
Ranney, which is ranked No. 4 in one state poll, had to tackle the powerful visitor from Union County without star forward Scott Lewis, who is out with an ankle injury, and Alex Klatsky, who is sidelined with a head injury.
The Tinton Falls school was led by Bryon Antoine and Ahmadu Sarnor, who each recorded 18 points.
Ithiel Horton scored 12 of his team-high 19 points in the second quarter for Roselle Catholic when it outscored Ranney, 23-9, to open a 36-22 lead at the break. Horton was named the game’s MVP.
Roselle Catholic was also sparked by Naz Reid, the McDonald’s All-America selection who is headed to Louisiana State University. He ended with 14 points and 10 rebounds.