Trenton should focus on states, not playing Camden

Jim Mora and Allen Iverson’s own popular interviews lathered phenomenal astonishment.

Mora, as Indianapolis Colts coach, delivered his memorable, “Playoffs?” when quizzed about his team reaching postseason play. Iverson, as a 76ers star, ranted his frequently referenced, “Practice? We talking about practice, man.”

Here? It’s Camden. We talking about Camden? Almost fainted when someone texted that talk surfaced about the Trenton Central High School boys basketball team involved in daydreams about a play date with highly regarded Camden High.

Yes, Coach Darryl “Pup” Young and his Tornadoes (23-1) appear good enough to end a 62-year state tournament drought, but Camden’s Panthers (22-2) represent an entirely different beast in high school competition.

No disrespect for Trenton High, but focus, especially with Mercer County Tournament action on the horizon, remains key in preparation for NJSIAA Group IV action. Old timers have lived for decades in want of a state championship. Others have headed home to that huge gymnasium in the sky hoping the Tornadoes could hang a banner.

The Trenton High 1961 championship came against Camden as Coach Fred Price guided a Tal Brody and George Lee-led squad to a perfect 24-0 record.

Camden and Trenton have celebrated history, including a 1991 Group IV state semifinal when Camden defeated Trenton 8785 in double overtime at Monmouth College. The Panthers’ victory included a melee as Camden fans were labeled as instigators in a chair-throwing, fists of fury brawl. Elizabeth later defeated Camden for the Group IV title.

NJSIAA officials punished Camden by excluding the Panthers from state tournament play for the next season. Camden fought the decision all the way up to the Supreme Court which upheld the decision.

Angry about the reprimand and out of the 1992 state tournament, players petitioned Camden Coach Clarence Turner to allow them free range in their final 1992 game. The Panthers defeated Highland Regional, 161-73.

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George School junior guard Christian Bliss poured in 39 points while senior forward Kachi Nzeh added 18 points and 18 rebounds as the Cougars claimed the Friends School League championship with a 64-61 victory over Academy New Church at LaSalle University on Friday.

George School (19-5) roster includes Allentown’s Dante Weise. The Cougars, which ended an 52-year FSL title drought, awaits seeding in the PAISAA tournament.