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In a cross-town rivalry game full of emotion and drama, DePaul's boys' basketball team put forward an intense effort to defeat Wayne Valley High School. But it was an injury to a key member of the Indians that truly defined this game. The Spartans took full advantage of Wayne Valley’s misfortune and sustained the lead throughout the second half.
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Both teams started the game shooting well and it was close for much of the first period. However, the Spartans had the fire and desire and went on a late run taking a 14-8 lead after one.
The Indians had their moments as they netted a three-pointer to start the second period. Later in the quarter, the Indians went on a 5-0 run to cut down the lead to 2. That would be the closest the Indians would get, as DePaul responded with a 9-3 burst.
With 1:37 left in the first half, Wayne Valley point guard Jason Rosenberg was injured diving for a loose basketball, as his head slammed into the shoulder area of a DePaul player. A long delay ensued, with Rosenberg taken out of the gym on a stretcher. Fortunately, reports indicate Rosenberg only suffered a sprained neck.
Despite losing such a key player, the Indians kept fighting and matched the Spartans’ third period 18 point output. They even made it close with an 8-2 run making the score 38-33. However, without Rosenberg, the Indians could only do so much. The Spartans took full advantage being more aggressive on defense and playing man-to-man. Adjustments were also made on offense as the Spartans began exploit their quickness driving into the paint and generating easy lay-ups. DePaul's top player, Justin Crosgile, had been covered well by Rosenberg before the injury, but had a big second half to lead his team.
Coach Bart Fazio acknowledged the fact that the injury impacted the game. “This was everything you want in a high school basketball game. But then he got hurt and that took away everything." The Spartans improve to 9-4 with the win while the Indians fall to the same mark. -- Emir Liguori for Jersey Sports Now
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