The run turned a 29-20 edge into a 40-23 halftime cushion. New England, which shot just 23 of 71 from the field, got no closer than 16 points in the second half.
Not even the absence of 6-9 Derrick Caracter (on an unofficial visit to Louisville this weekend) could slow the Panthers down. Five New Yorkers hit for double figures, including Lance Thomas (16 points), Lance Stephenson (15 points), Vernon Teel (15 points) and Rain Rickard (13 points).
Curtis Kelly, who appeared on no less than three rosters of the eight participating teams at the Hoop Fest, made a cameo appearance and netted 10 points for the Panthers.
Iowa State bound sharpshooter Corey Bingham topped New England with 17 points, while high flying forward Kiwan Smith was held in check and limited to 16 points. He had scored 37 points in a Wednesday quarterfinal round victory over Team Philly. Trigger happy point guard Jon Han shot just five of 16 from the floor and finished with 11 points for the Playaz.