GREEN BAY – The Fox River Classic Conference (FRCC) rematch between the Ashwaubenon and Notre Dame Academy boys’ basketball teams certainly lived up to the hype.
After Notre Dame won the first game between the teams on Jan. 3, 80-77, the Jaguars turned the tables in a 67-60 victory on Feb. 19 in front of a packed gym.
Amari Allen, a Division I commit to the University of Alabama, ended with 44 points in the win for Ashwaubenon.
“It was a great game,” the 6-foot-7 Allen said. “We lost to them the first time, so to be able to bounce back tonight and get a win against them was big.”
Most known for his scoring, Allen also contributed in big ways in the passing game.
Junior Carson Dorgu – who ended with eight points before fouling out – had three dunks on the evening – all assisted by Allen.
“I’m first in the conference with eight assists (per game),” Allen said. “I think (my passing) gets overlooked because of my scoring, but I feel like I’m a really good playmaker. Carson is coming off an injury, but he’s one of our key factors to success.”
The Jags (15-6 overall, 10-6 FRCC) jumped out to an 18-7 lead 10 minutes into the game, but the Tritons (17-4, 13-3) ended the first half on a 21-3 run to grab a 28-21 lead at the break.
During Notre Dame’s surge, Drew Siudzinski dumped in 10 points, including a three-pointer with time running down in the first half.
Allen had 13 points at intermission before exploding for 31 in the second half.
“What a beautiful experience,” Ashwaubenon Coach DeVante Blanks said. “The energy and atmosphere were amazing. Thankfully, we came out with a win. I told the boys that Notre Dame wasn’t going to lie down – they have a great team.”
With the Jaguars up 47-46 with 6:41 remaining, the visitors jumped ahead 58-51 a few minutes later and were never threatened again.
With the postseason fast approaching, area teams Ashwaubenon, Notre Dame, Pulaski and West De Pere are all in the same Division 2 sectional.
“Right now, it’s throw up a coin,” Blanks laughed. “My boys and coaches are aware of that. Whoever we get, we just need to go out and do our best.”
Elijah Fenner added 12 points for the Jaguars, while Andrew Rader led the Tritons with 16 points.
Lee Weber chipped in with 13 points for Notre Dame.
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