Last Tuesday, December 19, the Oratory Prep Rams faced off against the Hillside Comets in what would be the last home game before the beginning of Christmas break. Having won each of the past 4 matchups and being one of the only remaining undefeated teams in Union County, it is fair to say that OP was heavily favored coming into the matchup. In spite of this, the Rams found themselves down 15-11 at the end of the first quarter. Now, while the score portrayed the Rams as being behind on paper, the eye test made it evident as to who was the more skilled, and composed team. This narrative came to light on the court after a 16-7 run in the 2nd quarter put Oratory up 27-22 at halftime. With 9 of John Pirone’s 15 first-half points coming in the 2nd quarter, he can be largely accredited for the end-of-half turnaround. However, the Rams would not have been in the lead if not for Asher Bradley, Max Cook, and Patrick Conniff making up OP’s other 12 first-half points and adding rugged defensive play.
After gaining loads of momentum at the end of the first, the start of the 2nd half would be no different. The Rams would go on to dominate the 3rd quarter by out-scoring Hillside 20-7. As easily assumed, much of the 3rd quarter scoring was done by John Pirone, whose three 3rd quarter 3’s ignited roaring from both present and past Rowdies who are home for the holidays. Pirone’s scoring outburst included an and-1 corner three off a Pat Conniff assist that led to an eruption from the crowd. Solid plays in transition by Max Cook and Asher Bradley would then propel the Rams to a big lead while Pat Conniff’s strong interior presence anchored the Rams on both sides of the ball. Things would continue to go well for OP, with a deep three from senior guard Max Ince off a Nick Servitto kick-out proving to be the dagger. After leading by 20+ points, the contest would end with a score of 59-44. The biggest contributors to the Ram’s win consisted of John Pirone (27 points & 7 rebounds), Asher Bradley (10 points, 6 assist, 5 rebounds & 2 steals), and the P.O.G Chain winner Patrick Conniff (11 points, 8 rebounds & 3 blocks). The Rams will then face Rahway on 12/21, before ending 2023 with the annual Holiday In-Season Tournament.
