Allderdice Scorches Obama for Boys City League Title

By: HSSN Staff
Saturday, February 20, 2016 | 7:15 PM

James Jackson scored 24 of his game-high 28 points in the first half, leading Allderdice (23-1) to a decisive 74-47 win over Obama Academy (14-7) on Saturday afternoon at The Peterson Events Center.

The win gives the Dragons, Pennsylvania’s #1 Class AAAA ranked team, their third straight City League title and sixth in the last seven years. It is the third straight year that Allderdice has defeated Obama Academy in the title game.

“We’ve been in the big venues,” said Allderdice head coach Buddy Valinsky on his team’s hot start and dominance throughout. “When they’re turned up and focused, they’re a very good team.”

Allderdice flew out of the gates, forcing six first quarter turnovers, knocking down five three-pointers and soaring to an 18-0 lead to start the game. The Dragons would lead, 22-2, after just eight minutes.

Early in the second quarter, Allderdice would put the game away, going on a 10-2 run to extend their advantage to 32-4 before the Eagles could get their offense flowing. At halftime, Allderdice led 41-12, having knocked down eight three-pointers, half of which belonged to James Jackson.

“When it’s the big games, James Jackson really comes to play,” said Valinsky. “He’s a big time player.”

In the second half, Obama Academy was able to cut into the deficit, as Allderdice would pull their starters after building up a 37-point lead. The Eagles were led by Dana Strothers’ 17 points, all coming after halftime. Strothers also added a team-high ten rebounds.

James Jackson’s twin brother, Tim, would score ten points and add a pair of three-pointers, while Dujuan Dugger would snag a team-high 11 rebounds for the Dragons.

“(Allderdice) have the liberty to do whatever they want as far as shooting and scoring,” said Valinsky. Their defense is so good that it allows them to be creative on the offensive side.” 

Allderdice advances to the PIAA Playoffs and will meet either a District 10 or District 9 team in the PIAA Class AAAA Play-In Round, while Obama Academy will play an undetermined opponent in the PIAA Class AAA Play-In Round next week.

With a minute left, Obama Academy coach Devas Simmons subbed in Brandon Matthews, a junior who has autism. Allderdice intentionally turned the ball over twice, letting Matthews score two baskets, a jump shot from the foul line and a layup, erupting the Peterson Events Center crowd.

Score By Quarter:
A: 22-19-13-20=74
O:  2-12-12-23=47