LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS, NJ – With grit, heart, and an unstoppable drive, the Soehl Middle School Boys Basketball team delivered a statement victory, storming back in dramatic fashion to topple Governor Livingston 62-58.
Down by eight with just four minutes left on the clock, the Tigers refused to surrender. Instead, they clawed their way back, fueled by relentless defense, sharp execution, and an unbreakable team bond.
From the opening tip-off, the game was a high-octane battle, with both teams trading blows in a seesaw struggle that had fans gripping the edge of their seats. The lead shifted countless times through the first three quarters, but in the fourth, Governor Livingston seized its largest advantage of the night. Most teams would have crumbled under the pressure—but the Tigers had other plans.
Seventh-grade floor general Eli Rhett played a pivotal role in the electrifying comeback, finishing with 15 points, 4 steals, and 3 assists. He credited the team’s resilience and the coaching staff’s strategic adjustments for the turnaround.
“We never gave up. We kept pushing, had faith in each other, and locked in on defense, which turned into better offense,” Rhett said. “Both coaches helped us stay focused and gave us great plays to break down their defense.”
Soehl’s resurgence was powered by an unstoppable performance from seventh-grader Shane Henderson, who erupted for a game-high 33 points while dominating the boards with 11 rebounds. From start to finish, he was a force in the paint, imposing his will on both ends of the court.
But this win wasn’t just about individual heroics—it was a total team effort. Sixth-grader Emory Parker provided a defensive spark off the bench, applying relentless pressure to Governor Livingston’s guards. In the game’s closing moments, eighth-grader Eddie Oliveira delivered in the clutch, sinking crucial free throws to give Soehl the lead. Meanwhile, Layth Abdalla, the team’s third-leading scorer with 11 points, came up huge on the glass, securing key rebounds to help seal the victory.
Coach Brian Bourgouin praised his squad’s heart and determination. “They played hard today and showed real character. I always tell them—you can only control your attitude and your effort. In those final four minutes, they gave everything they had, and it paid off.”
With this exhilarating win, Soehl Middle School improves to 5-2 on the season. Now, with momentum on their side, the Tigers turn their focus to their next matchup against Orange Avenue Middle School in Cranford on January 31st.
One thing is certain—this team has proven they can battle through adversity, and they’re just getting started. LET’S GO TIGERS!