Panthers clinch playoff berth

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The Johnston boys basketball team rolled to two more wins, beating Providence Country Day 82-38 last week then cruising to an 84-32 decision over Times2 Academy on Monday. The wins improved the team’s record to a perfect 7-0 in league play which clinched the Panthers a playoff berth.

Anthony Corsinetti stayed hot and led the team with 19 points against PCD while TJ Leomensah added 15 points on five 3-pointers. Cameron Walker, Derek Salvatore and Brandon Testa all added 10 points as well.

Coach Mike Bedrosian was thrilled to see his club clinch a postseason appearance early this season, especially with Camani Batista closing in on his return to action. Batista has been sidelined to this point as he is going through transfer protocols after returning home from Bishop Hendricken.

“Our goal is to make the playoffs, so that is our first check mark. This is a big week with three games, including games against Shea and Tolman who are two of the top teams in our division. If we can get those wins, get to 9-0 with Camani Batista returning, then we will be in the driver’s seat,” said Bedrosian.

Although the Panthers have grabbed first place in Division II with a playoff appearance in the bag, Bedrosian plans on pushing the players and expects them to demand the best from one another.

“From my perspective, it’s about holding them accountable in practice and not letting them get comfortable. When you become comfortable in practice that is when things become lackadaisical. The coaching staff has done a good job of holding them accountable not only at practice but even in the games that we win big. We preach doing the little things that will help get us over the top,” said Bedrosian. “Executing our sets, rotating on our defensive zones and man to man. It’s about making sure our coaches and leaders on the team are holding everyone accountable and they’ve done a really good job of doing that.”

The Panthers will be busy with Shea and Tolman this week and will be ready to welcome Batista back next Tuesday. Batista will play a big role early on for the Panthers.

“He’s going to get big minutes right away. He’s been so patient with his situation and has probably been handling the situation better than the adults have. He has made such an impact on this team even though he has not even stepped on the floor yet in a game. With the leadership that he brings to practice every day, he makes everyone better. We’re looking forward to getting him back, his energy is contagious,” said Bedrosian, who expects his transition into the lineup to be a seamless one. “The chemistry is there. Derek, Anthony and Neari (Vasquez) have been playing with him since they were in seventh grade. There isn’t going to be a big adjustment with him playing those minutes. Derek and Anthony as captains are on board with it so we’re excited.”

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