UPDATE: In a thrilling overtime showdown, senior Chris Albano delivered a game-winning shot as Susan Wagner defeated Abraham Lincoln 81-79 on January 11, 2024. This dramatic finish unfolded at Lincoln’s gym in Brooklyn, NY, and has fans buzzing about the intense PSAL 4A Brooklyn-Staten Island II division matchup.
Albano’s incredible performance included a career-high 34 points, with three three-pointers and an impressive 7-for-8 from the free-throw line. His clutch jumper, taken just before the overtime buzzer, sealed the Falcons’ victory and marked their third consecutive win, improving their record to 9-2 overall and 4-2 in league play.
“This was a classic game in a classic gym,” said Danny Lanigan, head coach of the Falcons. “Lincoln has been a thorn in our side. Winning in their gym is a much taller task. Thank God we have Chris Albano.” The victory is particularly significant as it marks Wagner’s second win over Lincoln in two weeks.
The game was a rollercoaster, with both teams exchanging leads throughout. The Falcons managed a narrow 70-68 lead in the dying seconds of regulation, but Lincoln’s Marquise Lloyd forced overtime with a clutch basket. “We controlled a lot of the fourth,” Lanigan explained. “But every time we looked to secure the win, they made the right cut and fought to get to OT.”
As the overtime period unfolded, it remained a seesaw battle. With only seconds left and the Falcons leading 79-77, Lloyd sank two free throws to tie the game. Albano, undeterred, took the ball up the left side, hesitated momentarily, then delivered the decisive three-pointer, hitting nothing but net as the clock expired.
“This was an absolute tour de force performance from start to finish,” Lanigan praised Albano. “He played 36 minutes and capped it off with the game-winner.”
Notably, the game also showcased impressive performances from Darin Humes-James (14 points), Charles Gambino (11 points), and Adem Djonbalic (11 points, three treys) for Wagner. For Lincoln, Jace Parris led with 23 points, while Lloyd and others contributed significantly.
The intense atmosphere and competitive spirit of this matchup have left fans eager for the next encounter. As the season progresses, all eyes will be on Susan Wagner as they aim to maintain their winning streak and solidify their standing in the league.
Stay tuned for more updates on this developing story and the ongoing season in the PSAL league.
