Girls Basketball: Johnson Wins Big Over Summit in First Round of States

The Records: The Arthur L. Johnson Lady Crusaders basketball team (15-8-0) faced off against the Summit Hilltoppers (14-11-0) on Monday night at home in the first game of the NJSIAA tournament. 

The Final Score: 56-43, Johnson. Johnson controlled the flow of the game without ever giving up the lead. Half way through the third period it seemed like Summit had a fighting chance when they pulled to within one point, making the score 25-24. However, the Lady Crusaders went on a hot-streak and outscored the Hilltoppers 11-2 for the next two minutes. Johnson's lead was too much to overcome. Head Coach Thomas Chmiel credits the team's surge in the third to their adjustments at halftime. "We rolled over our defensive to cover Summit's two strong guards," said Coach Chmiel. "And then we just had to stay patient and identify the defense they were using."

The Hero: Despite taking a spill halfway through the second quarter, senior Kate Matthews posted a team-leading 17 points during the game. She also made 7 of 11 attempts at the free throw line.

What's Next: Johnson will play Rumson High School in the second round of the playoffs on Saturday, March 5. Coach Chmiel acknowledges that it will be a tough game, but he's staying positive. "As long as we play like we did tonight," he said, "we're going to be okay."