Central Catholic Emerges the Victor of Commonwealth Classic

Central Catholic High School has bragging rights until next Christmas, after beating Andover, 73-56, Thursday night in the Commonwealth Classic title game.

Forward Sam Lara took Most Valuable Player honors, but credited his team with the winning effort.

“We were hungry. We knew people wouldn’t believe in us. They counted us out, and we stuck together and made it happen as a group,” Lara told WHAV’s Frank Benjamin.

Andover High School’s EJ Perry IV was magic behind the 3-point line, but it wasn’t enough to overcome Central’s dominance, as play-by-play announcer Bob Schufreider reported.

Schufreider summarized the game for listeners.

“There are two things that stand out. One is EJ Perry was held to five points in the second half for Andover and Central Catholic had four guys in double figures tonight. It’s how they do it. They spread it out.”

In the consolation game, Methuen beat North Andover, 76-44.

The tournament launched with an eight-team field.

WHAV 97.9 FM broadcast both games live Thursday night from Methuen High School. Besides Broadcast veterans Schufreider and Benjamin, longtime Eagle-Tribune sports writer Hector Longo added his commentary during play.

WHAV will rebroadcast the games in the near future.

Thank You!

Coverage of the Commonwealth Christmas Classic tournament was underwritten by…

  • Ron Carpenito and the Keller Williams Prime Property Team, Andover
  • Sea Grass Therapies and Aesthetics, Methuen
  • Michael James Design, Methuen
  • Barry T. O’Connell Insurance Agency, Methuen
  • Attorney Bryan J. Kerman, Methuen
  • Greater Lawrence Family Health Center, Lawrence and Methuen
  • Mi Mexico Lindo Family Restaurant & Cantina, Methuen
  • The Country Kitchen, Methuen
  • Home Shop Properties, Methuen
  • Anthony’s Roast Beef, Methuen

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