Neumann-Goretti High School went 2-for-2 in Hershey as its boys and girls basketball programs both captured state championships on the hardwood.
The Saints’ boys team won its 10th state title in school history as Neumann-Goretti defeated Hershey High School 85-71 in the PIAA Class 5A state championship on March 28, led by a 25-point effort by Stephon Ashley-Wright. The Saints spread the ball around as five players finished in double figures including Keon Long-Mtume (14 points), DeShawn Yates (11), E.J. Stanton Jr. (11) and Kody Colson (10).
The Saints’ 10th state championship — all while under Coach Carl Arrigale — ties a state record for the most PIAA titles with Kennedy Catholic and Imhotep Charter. Arrigale now has an incredible 64-5 record in state playoff games. He is 619-149 all time, including a 313-53 record in the Catholic League. The Saints finished the year 19-11.
The Saints were one of four PCL teams to win state championships this year in a dominant year for the league. Father Judge (Class 6A), Devon Prep (4A) and West Catholic (3A) all brought titles back to Philadelphia.
On March 29, the Neumann-Goretti girls team took the court and trailed 27-23 at halftime and 37-32 after three quarters. But a strong 16-point fourth quarter helped Neumann-Goretti flip the script and rally for a 48-45 win over PCL rival Lansdale Catholic in the PIAA Class 4A state championship game.
Amya Scott’s steal and layup with 24 seconds left broke a 45-45 tie and put the Saints up for good.
The Saints, who won their first PCL championship since 2015 earlier this year, finished the season 26-4 by capturing their sixth state title in school history — all under coach Andrea Peterson.
Neumann-Goretti’s boys and girls programs achieved the same feat by both winning state titles just three years ago.
