The Emerson Cavos Varsity Boys Basketball team has had an unbelievable season, finishing the regular season with an impressive 19-5 overall record. The Cavos proved themselves against strong competition all year, including key Big North Conference wins over Mahwah, Pascack Hills, and Paramus. They also had two thrilling wins over Park Ridge, first 55-39 and later a close 50-49, showing their ability to perform in both dominant and tightly contested games.
The team also earned the honor of competing in two prestigious tournaments this season, advancing to the Bergen County Jamboree where they faced Ramapo on January 29, and playing Midland Park in the Bergen Invitational Tournament on January 31. While they fell short in both contests, the experience of playing on a big stage against top competition left a lasting impact on the team.
“It was an incredible experience playing in the Jamboree,” Captain John Piccirillo said. “Being part of tournaments like that is something you remember.”
Junior Ryan Leone said, “Being in the Jamboree brought our team closer and prepared us for playoff intensity.”
Leading the team all season has been John Piccirillo, who is averaging about 21.4 points, 6 rebounds and 4 assists per game. He is joined in the starting lineup by John Kennedy, Ryan Dauble, Ryan Leone, and Marcos Kersel. Their chemistry and unselfish play have made the Cavos a difficult team to defend.
Junior John Kennedy said, “Everyone on this team trusts each other, and when the game is on the line, we know we can rely on one another to make the right play.”
Now the Cavos turn their focus to the first round of the NJSIAA Tournament North Jersey Section 1 Group 1 bracket, where they will host the Boonton High School Bombers on Friday night. Entering as the No. 2 seed, Emerson is ready for playoff basketball.
With a 19-5 record, big wins against top Big North teams, participation in prestigious tournaments, and a strong group of players, the Cavos are determined to make a strong push in the NJSIAA State Tournament.
