CNBNews

 The #4 GHS Lions (20 - 9) defeated host #1 Paulsboro (22 - 4) 59 - 52 in the South Jersey Group 1 Playoff to advance to Tuesday's South Jersey Finals against #2 Salem, who defeated Wildwood. With the win the Lions avenged two previous losses to Paulsboro during the 2022 regular season, when it counted the most and secured a 20 win season

Brothers (pictured) , Senior Steven Light 14 points and Sophomore Michael Light 11 points combined to help pace  the Lions. While Junior Aydan Hagan dropped 13 points behind three, 3pt baskets during a 4th quarter comeback.

Down 45 - 41 entering the 4th qtr pressure defense by the Lions allowed Hagan (pictured) to put a dagger in the Red Raiders defense when his team needed him the most.

The Red Raiders opened up the final quarter lead to 6 with just under 5:30 remaining.  With the Lions down by 6 points, Hagan started his shooting display scoring 10 of his 13 points during the Lions 17-5 scoring run to seal the victory. Hagan was replaced briefly due to an injury and his replacement Senior utility player Adrian Delgado buried 2 free throws giving the Lions a cushion.

The Lions had to overcome the play of  Paulsboro's Keyshun Sanders 23 points off 11 defensive steals. The Lions  struggled with 23 total turnovers for the game.

The team oriented Lions put 4 players in double figures (Liam Gorman 10 pts) and along with Mr. Dependable, Steven Burkhardt's 9 points to go along with 8 rebounds.

 Burkhardt (pictured) continued his scoring around the basket with his 4 ' to 6'  jump shot. His soft touch is always at the most crucial time. 

Coach Liam James has continued to put his team in a position each game with a chance to win.  James's has put his trust in his players and they have continued to respond.

Check back for more details about SJ Group I Championship Game,