QUEENS, NY — In our first-ever appearance in IS8 Playoffs, Team Gotham Hoops knocked off local Stevenson HS on Friday night to advance to the Round of 16. A closely contested affair after the first quarter, Team Gotham Hoops built a double-digit lead heading into the half. The group moved the ball well offensively and played tough defense to build an 18-point advantage after three quarters.

Stevenson HS put together a strong fourth period to cut the deficit to single digits but Team Gotham Hoops held on for the 69-61 win.

Five players scored in double-figures for Team Gotham Hoops, led by senior Ryan Leonardo and sophomore Ahamad Torrence with 14 points apiece. Trevon Lewis led Stevenson HS with a game-high 27 points in the loss.

—

Team Gotham Hoops advanced to the Round of 16 where they would face No. 2 Difference Makers on Saturday. The group jumped out to a 12-1 start over Difference Makers before the Pennsylvania-based program made a run of their own.

This back-and-forth affair continued til the fourth quarter with each team finding themselves ahead before the opponent fought back to control the lead.

It was a two-point ballgame late in the fourth until Difference Makers separated themselves from Team Gotham Hoops following a timeout. They would go on to win, 88-80.

Team Gotham Hoops was led by Farouk Kaba’s 27 points. The Jefferson University commit was a standout player on both ends of the floor in this game. Torrence and Leonardo added 17 and 16 points, respectively. The Difference Maker’s dynamic duo of Cornelius "Boog" Robinson (Monmouth commit) and Dasear Haskins (St. Joseph’s commit) combined for 57 points in the win.

—

We are thankful for the opportunity to compete in the prestigious IS8 Spring HS Classic and look forward to participating in future tournaments. Stay tuned for a full IS8 Scouting Report coming soon.