Laing Helps Spark St. Rays Win

Keyed by swingman Gavin Grant's 19 points and nine rebounds, as well as a swarming defensive effort, St. Raymond's High School (The Bronx, New York), currently ranked number 12 in USA Today's National High School Poll, pulled away from Brooklyn's Bishop Loughlin, 77-61, in the CHSAA quarterfinals Wednesday night at Iona College.

Loughlin, in head coach Ted Gustus's last game, battled the Ravens valiantly in the first half, spurred on by guard Kojo Mensah's eight points and three steals. Loughlin led for stretches before an 11-1 St. Raymond's run before the half, fueled by the Ravens' presses, opened up a 35-28 lead at the half.

St. Raymond's was able to stretch their lead to double digits in the third, as Grant began to catch fire. The junior scored from the perimeter, from mid-range, and slashed for buckets while his teammates continued to step it up defensively. Miguel Garcia's three-pointer with 1:10 left to play in the third quarter pushed the Ravens' lead to 54-42. Loughlin would chip away at the lead, but never seriously threaten their opponent, as Raymond's advanced to the CHSAA semifinals convincingly.

Along with Grant, who turned in a stellar effort, junior Brian Laing added 13 points and 5 rebounds. 6'3'' sophomore guard Ricky Torres, one of the top prospects in his class in New York City, added nine points, all in the first half.

Loughlin was led by Mensah, who tallied 20 points and 5 steals. Stony Brook head coach Nick Macarchuk was on hand to check out Kojo. Sources tell us that Stony Brook is extremely interested, while Wagner, St. Bonaventure's, and Howard are also checking out the athletic combo guard.

Sharpshooting senior guard Andrew Wright added 19 points for Loughlin, while senior guard Courtney Johnson chipped in with eight points.