Coming into the playoffs on a two game losing streak, the Crusaders needed to make a statement in the first round of the playoffs. In the first half, the Crusaders were a bit sloppy with the ball but took and maintained the lead going into the second half 27-18. In the third quarter, the Crusader’s press and trap defense lead to a number of turnovers and fast break layups. Brother Martin outscored Barbe in the third quarter 31-5 and ended the quarter on a 17-0 run. With a 58-23 lead entering the fourth quarter, Coach Gallagher cleared the bench to rest the starters. The game ended with a final score of 70-30.
Jalen Gray topped Brother Martin with 20 points, four rebounds and three assists. Gray scored 10 of his 20 points in the decisive third quarter. Jordan Lumpkins added 14 points and eight rebounds while Jordan Cornish had eight points. Bryant Boudreaux contributed to the victory with two points, five rebounds, six assists and seven steals.
With the win, Brother Martin moves to 28-6 on the season and will host No. 12 Higgins in the regional round of the playoffs.
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