Carroll’s Stover, McNulty shine in Hope Classic

PHILADELPHIA — One of the hottest teams in Delaware County stole the show Saturday at the ninth annual Hoops For Hope Classic, hosted by University of the Sciences.

Buoyed by Lexi Stover’s 16-point performance, Archbishop Carroll cruised to a 67-41 victory over Upper Room Christian of Dix Hills, N.Y. Stover, who shot 6-of-10 from the field and 2-of-3 from 3-point distance, went home with game MVP honors.

The Patriots, who have ripped off seven consecutive victories as they brace for their toughest stretch of the season with games against Archbishop Wood, Neumann-Goretti, Cardinal O’Hara and Bonner-Prendergast on the horizon, seized control with a 14-2 run to close the opening half.

In addition to fellow senior guard Stover, Keara McNulty played a solid all-around game. McNulty, an All-Delco field hockey player, netted all eight of her points in the first two quarters. She dished out three assists and came away with a pair of steals.

Carroll took advantage of its opponent’s staffing issues, as Upper Room Christian dressed only six players, two of whom fouled out in the fourth quarter.

Jess Carney, who sank two 3-pointers, added nine points while Kristen Ryan chipped in with six.