Essex County Recap

Season Recap

The biggest story in Essex County basketball this past winter was the return of mighty Saint Benedict's to the fold, not only in the county tournament but also as a member of Non-Public A in the state tournament. For nearly twenty years, Benedict's has battled Blair to be the kings of the Prep classification but their decision to re-enter NJSIAA play was a game changer in the landscape of New Jersey Basketball. The Bees finished the season 22-7 and won the Essex County title in convincing fashion with a dominant 57-34 blowout of Immaculate Conception. While they lost the Prep final to Blair and fell to Bergen Catholic in the A North quarters, they certainly made noise in their first season back in NJSIAA play. They were led by sophomore prospect Chidi Nwigwe, a 6'5" guard with high major potential, along with senior David Johnson in the backcourt. They'll return a number of talented players next year and be a favorite to repeat as county champions.

In the Newark Public sphere, Prophet Kates coached Arts to the Group II State Final before falling to Camden High. Arts won the Newark Public Schools tournament this winter and scored marquee victories over Bergen Catholic, Rutgers Prep and Saint Joseph's of Metuchen. Seniors Anthony Akande and Savod Godwin were multi-year starters who drove the bus but the excitement lies in the future with key contributors Jayden Holman, Shelton Colwell, Kevin Freeman and others set to return next winter.

Driving up the Watchung Range, it was Millburn who had the season to put in the history books. Led by senior guard Zach Benmortis and 6'6" forward Noah Ravitz, the Millers advanced to the sectional final before falling to Colinia, finishing their season 22-7. Sophomore Chase Plotkin, who emerged as a three point threat, will return next season to lead the way.

Player Of The Year

Chidi Nwigwe, Saint Benedict's

The electric 6'5" guard transferred in from Bergen Catholic and made an immediate impact on a county championship team as Benedict's transitioned back into the NJSIAA State Playoff and Essex County picture.

SEC First Team Sensational Seven

Kole Grandison, Immaculate Conception

Shelton Colwell, Newark Arts

David Johnson, Saint Benedict's

Casper Photo, Saint Benedict's

Anthony Akande, Newark Arts

Myles Blackley, Immaculate Conception

Maurice Vassel, Saint Benedict's

SEC Second Team Sensational Seven

Eugene Byass, East Orange

Malcolm Bragg, Newark Tech

Kayiri Barkley, East Orange

Savod Godwin, Newark Arts

Zach Benmortis, Millburn

Noah Ravitz, Millburn

Najee Graham, Newark Collegiate

SEC Third Team Sensational Seven

Kevin Freeman, Newark Arts

Jaren Barnett, Immaculate Conception

Robert Foster, Payne Tech

Jalen Baker, Newark Tech

Marcus Bragg, Newark Tech

Jesus Koudou, West Caldwell Tech

Gerald Edwell, Payne Tech

Final Rankings

1. Saint Benedict's(22-7)

2. Immaculate Conception(23-8)

3. Arts(24-9)

4. East Orange(23-6)

5. Newark Collegiate(23-7)

6. Millburn(22-7)

7. Newark Tech(19-10)

8. Payne Tech(17-9)

9. Science Park(19-9)

10. Montclair(15-11)