In one of the wildest Tier III matchups of the tournament, the #1-seeded Katz Yeshiva High School STORM were pushed to the brink by the #15-seeded Rabbi Oscar Z. Fasman Yeshiva High School, surviving an overtime thriller 72–67 to avoid a monumental upset.
Fasman, the lowest seed in Tier III, showed zero fear from the opening tip. Playing with heart, hustle, and confidence, they went toe-to-toe with the tournament favorites behind a spectacular team effort. C. Zahtz poured in 24 points, attacking relentlessly, while S. Lebovics caught fire from deep, draining clutch shots on his way to 19 points. S. Lebedinsky added 11, as Fasman’s scrappy defense and timely shooting had the Storm reeling late in regulation.
But the top seed refused to fold. J. Kogan took over for Katz, erupting for 26 points and sinking five three-pointers, including two huge shots in overtime that turned the tide. I. Attias and N. Okaknin were equally vital, each adding 18 points and keeping the Storm offense steady in the face of Fasman’s relentless energy.
After regulation ended in a tie, the overtime period was a war of will. Katz’s experience and composure finally made the difference — converting from the line, controlling the boards, and holding off Fasman’s final charge.
The final horn sealed it: Katz STORM 72, Fasman 67 (OT). It was far from a routine win for the top seed — the underdog Fasman squad earned every ounce of respect, nearly pulling off one of the biggest shocks of the tournament. For Katz, it was a wake-up call and a reminder that even the strongest Storm can be tested by a fearless opponent.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login