In an electrifying finale at the Burlington County Boys Basketball Tournament, the Rancocas Valley Red Devils managed to edge out Burlington Township, defeating them 66-63.
The win marks another high point in a season full of drama, with Rancocas Valley taking the victory despite a fiercely competitive performance by Burlington Township.
Both teams came into the game with something to prove, making this showdown an intense clash that lived up to the hype.
Burlington Township entered the game with an incredible 22-game winning streak, one of the longest in the state, and with a commanding average of 66 points per game.
The Falcons had been on fire, tearing through their competition with impressive victories over Seneca, Westampton Tech, and Cherokee.
Their star, point guard Quayd Hendryx, had been the engine driving the team, offering sharp passes and lethal scoring.
Along with him, forward Irving Singletary, guard Baron Davis, and a solid supporting cast were all primed to keep their momentum going in the final.
Rancocas Valley, on the other hand, came into the game with a 15-11 record, but their experience and resolve were evident.
Despite a rocky start to the season, the Red Devils had fought their way into the final, defeating Burlington City, Holy Cross Prep, and a major semifinal victory over the top-seeded Lenape.
What stood out in their semifinal win was the stellar performance by seniors Montre Wilson and Mike Phinisee, alongside senior forward Harshpeet Singh.
That trio combined for an impressive 46 points, and their leadership would be essential against Burlington Township’s high-powered offense.
From the opening buzzer, both teams showed their strengths.
Burlington Township quickly took a slight lead, but Rancocas Valley responded with solid defense and strong shooting, particularly in the second half, where they outscored their opponents 32-23.
Regardless of Burlington Township’s relentless push to regain the lead in the final quarter, Rancocas Valley held firm, using its calm demeanor under pressure to secure the win.
Burlington Township’s offense was led by Hendryx, who tried to carry his team through a game that became a test of endurance.
The Falcons had no shortage of talent, but their fast-paced style of play was met with resistance by a disciplined Rancocas Valley squad that focused on controlling the tempo and executing when it mattered most.
Coach Lacey Walker’s team had the tools to win—however, they struggled with uncharacteristic mental errors at key moments, allowing Rancocas Valley to capitalize.
For Rancocas Valley, coach Jay Flanagan’s game plan of keeping the game under control and not getting caught up in a track meet paid off.
Singh and Phinisee’s contributions were pivotal, especially late in the game when each basket seemed crucial.
The Red Devils’ experience in close games and their ability to handle late-game pressure made the difference.
In the aftermath of the game, the Rancocas Valley players were jubilant, recognizing they had faced one of the toughest opponents possible and come out on top.
Burlington Township, though disappointed, held their heads high, knowing that their incredible season—one filled with dominance and determination—had brought them close but not quite to the final prize.
For both teams, the future certainly looks bright, with each squad ready to build on their success and continue their pursuit of excellence.
