And the three main reasons for the win were Lance Thomas, Lance Stephenson and Vernon Teel. One player -- Thomas -- is currently in the process of cutting his list down to five schools. The other -- Stephenson -- is just starting his high school career. Teel is still open in his recruiting process.
All three at one timeframe during yesterday's final were big factors in Gary Charles' program today.
Holding a 42-32 lead at the half, it was Stephenson who had several thrilling drives to the basket. His behind the back dribbles and dashes to the basket lit up the crowd at Baruch on the Panthers side.
On Aneesa's Sports' side, it was Eugene Harvey again having another terrific game. Harvey scored 18 points, including two three-pointers. Stephenson finished the contest with 18 points too.
It was Stephenson who helped the Panthers ignite the first-half lead. It was Thomas who bruised Aneesa's Sports inside for several key in the paint buckets. The 6-foot-8 Thomas also knocked down a couple of jumpers to show off his improving perimeter game.
During a few occasions in the second half, Aneesa's managed to cut the lead to five points. But when Harvey fouled out with 5:30 left in the game, the chances for a comeback were limited for Aneesa's. The battle between Harvey and Stephenson was entertaining too. Each took a turn on each other to dazzle the crowd for twisting, driving layups.
Teel, who is a north to south offensive menace, dribbled his way past the Anessa's defense for 17 points. Teel always seems to get to the basket and score.
Vernon can be explosive taking the ball to the basket. He was a big factor along with the two Lances in the championship victory.
Thomas' game is understated. He had 27 points and grabbed a bunch of rebounds too. Thomas had a few blocks that led to breakaway baskets by the Panthers. Thomas plays a hard-nosed brand of basket that has high division one schools yearning for a chance to have him in their programs.
Stephenson's game is loud and entertaining too. Stephenson also made a couple of brilliant feeds to open teammates, leading to some easy baskets. The best is yet to come for this freshman.
Yesterday afternoon, the combination of experience, talent, speed, and strength paid off for the New York Panthers.