Notre Dame Prep (Mass.) proved it on the court.
Michael Beasley, in a homecoming of sorts, scored 30 points and had 21 rebounds to lead Notre Dame to a 114-94 victory over Bridgton Academy (Maine) in the inaugural National Prep Championship.
The event, which included the top four prep teams in the country, was held at the University of District Columbia – near where Beasley grew up.
Johnny Higgins added 28 points and Deonte Roberts chipped in 23 in the win.
``I enjoyed the privilege of playing in the inaugural Final Four,” Notre Dame coach Bill Barton said. “I think it’s a great way for prep school to end the season to have the top teams settle it on the court.”
``The key for us was that we had our transition game going,” added Barton. “We got out and ran. I like our chances when it’s a track meet.”
Bridgton was led by its St. John’s-bound duo of Justin Burrell (21 points) and Paris Horne (17). Unsigned senior point guards Brian Rudolph and Paul Becklens combined for 32 points in the losing effort.