SPORTS WITH FLORENCE
March 6, 2023
The Lincoln Park Leopards are your WPIAL 4A boys’ basketball champions! In a close fought battle against the North Catholic Trojans, the Leopards pulled away 78-68 at the Petersen Event Center in Pittsburgh.
Soon to be his home court, junior Brandin Cummings shined with 22 points and helped change the momentum and put the game away midway through the fourth quarter. Sophomore Meleek Thomas came alive in the second half after going 3 for 8 shooting during the first half. Ending the game going 9 for 16 with 25 points and 14 rebounds.
North Catholic held the Leopards to short leads throughout the game and even led by one during the third quarter. But they weren’t able to hold on for long due to turnovers and mishaps when the lights shined brightest.
During post-game interviews, North Catholic’s head coach Jim Rocco gives all the credit in the world to both Thomas and Cummings stating, “You’re talking about the two best players in the area. I believe that. I believe Cummings will be in a position to get significant minutes for the University of Pittsburgh in the ACC as a freshman.” And goes on to say about Thomas, “And Meleek is top 10 in the country. If Meleek was at Sierra Canyon or Montverde Academy, he’d be one of their best players. That’s how good he is.”
The Leopards will play South Allegheny at home on Friday the 10th for the first game of PIAA playoffs.
