Conwell-Egan Catholic sends Camp Hill packing in states

PHILA. — Before Conwell-Egan Catholic (CEC) captured a District 12 championship, it was 51 years between playoff wins. Now, the Eagles have doubled that postseason win total with today’s 71-54 triumph over Camp Hill in the first round of the PIAA Class AA tournament.

“For this group, this is all novel,’ said CEC head coach Frank Sciolla. “So many things are being thrown at them so fast. You want to use your experience at having been there before and you want to have fun but at the same time, keep your eye on the prize.’

Ahead by just four at the half, Egan poured it on strong in the third quarter with juniors Stevie Jordan (22 pts.) and Lapri McCray-Pace (16 pts.) back in the game after sitting with foul trouble in the second. The Eagles entered the final frame ahead, 55-39, with McCray-Pace leading the way with 10 points in the period. Jordan tallied eight of his game-high 22 points in the quarter and senior Sean Kelly registered two of four three-pointers he hit in the game.

“We came out ready to play,’ said CEC senior Chase Kumor, of Newtown. “We know from the Catholic League that no matter who your opponent is, you have to come out and play your hardest every game.

“That’s our mentality — 32 minutes right from the start. You can’t let up at any point.’