Irvington HS boys’ basketball team falls to Newark Central in Essex County Tournament

IRVINGTON – The Irvington High School boys’ varsity basketball team, seeded 20th, fell at fourth-seeded Newark Central, 67-60, in the first round of the Essex County Tournament on Feb. 13.

Freshman guard Nasir Johnson had 16 points with two 3-pointers, senior guard Jakylin Shuford had 11 points; senior guard Othniel Nyameke had nine points; senior forward Aasad Lawrence had seven points; senior guard Ijah Jones added four and senior guard Dashaun Daniels chipped in three.

The Blue Knights led 34-30 at halftime, but Central rallied in second half, outscoring IHS, 20-14, in the third quarter, and 17-12 in the fourth.

IHS, which hit seven 3-pointers, moved to a 6-13 record.

The Blue Knights defeated No. 25 seed Cedar Grove, 46-44, in the second preliminary round and defeated No 13 seed Newark Tech, 59-57, in the third preliminary round of the ECT. IHS had a bye in the first preliminary round.

In previous action, Johnson scored 10 points in the 74-38 home loss to powerhouse Seton Hall Prep on Feb. 11.

The Blue Knights, who did not qualify for the state North Jersey Section 2, Group tournament, hope to end the season on a strong note. The following are the remaining IHS games

Feb. 22, Hackettstown, home, 4 p.m.

Feb. 25, East Side, away, 4 p.m.

Feb. 26, Union, home, 4 p.m.