St. Peter’s High School celebrated Senior Night in spectacular fashion on March 14, 2024, as senior player Nico Parlanti delivered a thrilling performance that culminated in a last-minute victory over St. Joseph by-the-Sea. With a career-high of 21 points, Parlanti not only contributed significantly throughout the game but also secured the win with a go-ahead jump shot just 5.8 seconds before the final buzzer, leading the Eagles to a tight 57-56 triumph.
The pre-game festivities were particularly poignant as Parlanti was the only senior recognized during the ceremony prior to the game. His standout performance was a fitting tribute to his dedication over the past two years on the varsity team. The match took place in front of an enthusiastic crowd at St. Peter’s gymnasium, which added to the electric atmosphere of the evening.
A Nail-Biting Finish
Despite the spotlight on Parlanti, the game showcased talent on both sides. St. Joseph by-the-Sea’s junior guard Nick Rebracca led all scorers with 26 points, demonstrating his shooting prowess with four three-pointers and a successful 6-for-7 performance from the free-throw line. As the game reached its climax, Rebracca had an opportunity to secure the win for his team but his final shot fell short as the buzzer sounded.
St. Peter’s victory marked their third win in four games, improving their overall record to 5-8 and a 3-2 record in the CHSAA Staten Island division after initially struggling with back-to-back losses at the start of the season. Meanwhile, St. Joseph by-the-Sea dropped to 10-6 overall but maintained a strong position in the division with a current 3-1 standing.
Head coach Ryan Woods expressed satisfaction with his team’s performance, emphasizing their focus and resilience. “We talk a lot about next-play mentality and riding the highs and lows,” he said. “Fortunately, we were able to throw one back at the end of the game. I’m very happy with the resiliency that we showed tonight.”
Key Moments Define the Match
Parlanti’s pivotal contributions included a late three-pointer and key free throws that helped the Eagles establish a game-high lead of 41-32 late in the third quarter. They entered the final quarter with a 42-35 lead, but the Vikings quickly mounted a comeback, led by junior John Paturzo, who scored a career-high 19 points. Paturzo’s aggressive drives and mid-range shots fueled a critical 16-3 run that allowed St. Joseph by-the-Sea to take a 45-39 advantage with just over three minutes remaining.
Despite the pressure, St. Peter’s maintained composure. Sophomore center Tyler Schoenberg played a crucial role, scoring 15 points and leading the team back into contention. Schoenberg ignited an 8-0 run, highlighted by two back-to-back baskets from junior Ryan Freeman, who finished with 8 points. The teams exchanged leads as the clock wound down, showcasing a fierce competitive spirit.
With the score tied at 53-53 in the closing moments, both teams made clutch plays. Parlanti’s baseline jumper gave the Eagles a slight edge, but Rebracca quickly responded with a three-pointer to regain the lead for the Vikings at 56-55. The tension reached its peak as both teams battled for supremacy in the final seconds.
In the ensuing play, St. Peter’s executed a well-rehearsed inbounds play that culminated in Parlanti receiving a pass just outside the paint. He confidently sank a 10-foot jumper, propelling the Eagles ahead at 57-56. “I was just looking to get the best shot possible,” Parlanti reflected on the critical moment. “Once it left my hand, I thought it was good. It just feels great to do it for my team.”
The Eagles’ defense held firm during St. Joseph by-the-Sea’s final possession, preventing Rebracca from getting a clean shot off. Ultimately, the game ended with a miss, securing a memorable victory for St. Peter’s and its senior player.
Notably, both teams demonstrated excellent ball control, with St. Joseph by-the-Sea committing only six turnovers, none in the fourth quarter, while St. Peter’s had eight turnovers, with just one occurring in the final period. The Eagles also dominated the boards, out-rebounding the Vikings 29-23.
Parlanti’s contributions, including three three-pointers and a perfect 4-for-4 from the free-throw line, were key to the Eagles’ success. Coach Woods expressed immense pride in his senior’s last-minute heroics, recognizing the importance of the play that led to the winning basket. “I couldn’t be happier for a senior on Senior Night to bang that shot,” he said.
As both teams look ahead, St. Peter’s will carry the momentum from this thrilling win, while St. Joseph by-the-Sea remains in contention for the Island division crown with two critical matches remaining.
