The Sacred Heart Irish defeated Clark Academy, 71-68, at Sacred Heart Gym on Wednesday, December 2. The game featured several lead changes, with the Irish jumping out to an early first quarter lead. Clark, however, would not be counted out, as they continually answered Sacred Heart fast-break points with accurate shooting from 3-point range.
The Irish's victory was in doubt until the final seconds, as strong defense held off a resilient Clark team. Junior Sean Smith continued his dominance from last year showing an ability to score both from jump shots as well as from the low post (team-high 25 points), while also controlling the glass by collecting upwards of 17 rebounds for a double-double. Senior Guard Alonzo Rose contributed 23 points, scoring through a combination of outside shooting and twisting drives through the key. The Irish also received strong play from Junior Guard John Cooper who contributed 12 points, largely from beyond the three-point arc.
Wednesday's victory marks a strong out of conference victory for the Irish, as Clark won its own division last year and boasts another strong team this year.