In a display of dominance and depth, Stepinac clinched the NY Diocesan championship with a decisive 67-51 win over Cardinal Hayes at Mount St. Michael HS in the Bronx. This victory underscores Stepinac's reputation, boasting one of the most talented senior classes in the nation, all bound for Division I programs.
Leading the charge was Adonis Ratliff, a highly sought-after recruit headed to USC. Ratliff, who had previously been sidelined by injury, made a triumphant return with 21 points, 12 rebounds, and three blocks. His performance highlighted his versatile offensive skills, making him a formidable presence on the court.
The Crusaders, with a 22-4 record and an undefeated 17-0 in CHSAA play, took control in the third quarter. After Cardinal Hayes' Christian Brown nailed a corner three, Stepinac responded with a turnaround jumper from Michigan State signee Jasiah Jervis, sparking a 9-0 run. This surge was capped by Ratliff's deep three-pointer, prompting a timeout from Hayes.
Hassan Koureissi, bound for Fordham, added to the lead with an emphatic dunk, exploiting a defensive lapse. Although Hayes countered with a floater from sophomore guard Brice Yancey, Stepinac's momentum was unstoppable.
Cardinal Hayes showcased their impressive backcourt depth, cultivated by head coach Joe Lods. With talents like Yancey, Brown, and Hector Almodovar, the team remains a formidable force despite losing high-scoring Malik Fields to graduation. They will continue to build around their promising 6-foot-10 big man, Amadou Barry.
Stepinac now eyes a historic fourth consecutive city title, a testament to their sustained excellence and ambition.