Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK rallies to beat Garden City after a 10 point deficit

In a basketball game held during the second annual Anthony Bolden Classic at Baldwin, New York, the Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK girls' basketball team achieved a notable victory against Garden City. The match took place on a Saturday afternoon, where Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK faced a significant challenge after trailing by 10 points at halftime. Emma Heaney, a senior on the team, played a crucial role in this comeback, demonstrating both offensive skill and leadership. Initially, the Hawks started the match promisingly, with Heaney contributing seven points in the first quarter, allowing them to lead 12-11. However, they struggled in the second quarter, and Garden City capitalized on their errors, establishing a 10-point lead by halftime. This prompted a discussion among the players during the halftime break, emphasizing the importance of teamwork and effort, which Heaney pointed out as essential for overcoming their sluggish start. By the end of the third quarter, the Hawks had narrowed the gap to five points, setting the stage for an intense final quarter. Heaney recognized the need to elevate her performance, noting her focus on shutting out distractions. In the fourth quarter, her offensive prowess shone through as she scored 10 of her total 17 points, notably including a pivotal layup that put the Hawks in the lead. This strong offensive display was complemented by a robust defensive effort, as the Hawks managed to shut out Garden City completely in the fourth quarter. The game was not solely about the score, as it also held emotional significance for the players and coaches. Coach Nick Tomasulo spoke about the impact of Anthony Bolden, after whom the tournament was named, and how participating in the event to honor him added meaning to the competition. Heaney echoed these sentiments, expressing the value of playing for a cause while showcasing their talents on the court. The combination of individual contributions, teamwork, and emotional motivation ultimately led to Plainview-Old Bethpage JFK's 45-32 victory over Garden City, marking an inspiring start to the season.