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Ocean City's Undefeated Run Shocks South Jersey Basketball

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  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. defeated-run-shocks-south-jersey-basketball.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, January 2nd 2026 at 14:09 GMT by NJ.com

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South Jersey Boys Basketball: Ocean City’s Surprise Run, Undefeated Streaks, and Emerging Stars – A Notebook Update

The landscape of South Jersey boys basketball is shifting this season, with unexpected contenders rising and established programs facing challenges. NJ.com's recent notebook provides a snapshot of the region's action, highlighting surprising performances, dominant streaks, and players to watch as we move deeper into January 2024. The article emphasizes that while some traditional powerhouses remain strong, several teams are making waves, creating an exciting and unpredictable season.

Ocean City: The Biggest Surprise

Without a doubt, the biggest story emerging from South Jersey is the remarkable performance of Ocean City High School's boys basketball team. Currently undefeated at 13-0, they’ve shattered expectations and become a legitimate force in Group III. For years, Ocean City has been considered a solid program but rarely a championship contender. This year, however, Head Coach John Rose’s squad is playing with an intensity and cohesion that's difficult to ignore. The article credits their success to a balanced scoring attack – no single player dominating the points – and a tenacious defense. Key contributors include seniors Andrew Blake (averaging 18 points), Josh Upshur, and junior Ryan Carney. Their ability to consistently execute Rose’s system and maintain composure under pressure has been instrumental in their undefeated run. The team's success is also fueled by a strong sense of community support; the article notes packed gyms and enthusiastic fans contributing to a positive atmosphere around the program. Ocean City's schedule, while challenging, hasn't tripped them up yet, suggesting they are prepared for the rigors of tournament play.

The Undefeated Watch: Camden & Paul VI Still Reign

While Ocean City is stealing headlines, two programs remain firmly in control of their destiny. The Camden High School Panthers (12-0) continue to be a dominant force, as expected. Camden has long been considered the gold standard for South Jersey basketball and this year’s team lives up to that reputation. Their roster boasts considerable talent, including Dajuan Harris Jr., a highly sought-after recruit. The article doesn't delve into specific player stats but emphasizes Camden’s overall depth and ability to wear down opponents with relentless defense and athleticism. Paul VI (13-0) is also enjoying an undefeated season and has established itself as the top team in Group IV, consistently demonstrating strong play on both ends of the court. Their consistent performance reinforces their position as a serious contender for state championships.

Other Notable Teams & Storylines

Beyond the top three, several other teams are making noise:

• Shawnee: The article highlights Shawnee's impressive record (10-2) and their emergence as a strong Group III team. They’ve demonstrated significant improvement from previous seasons, showcasing a more disciplined approach to both offense and defense.
• Williamstown: Williamstown is another team exceeding expectations, boasting an 8-3 record. Their success is attributed to a well-rounded roster and a commitment to fundamentals.
• Winslow Township: Winslow (9-2) has experienced some recent setbacks but remains a competitive program with talented players. The article notes that they are working through some growing pains as they integrate new players into the rotation.
• St. Augustine Prep: The Hermits, traditionally a strong program, have faced challenges this year, struggling to find consistency and battling injuries. They’re aiming to regain their footing as the season progresses.

Key Player Performances & Emerging Talent

While Ocean City's Andrew Blake is receiving deserved recognition, other players are also making significant contributions:

• Dajuan Harris Jr. (Camden): As mentioned earlier, Harris remains a standout for Camden, drawing attention from college scouts across the nation.
• Players at Paul VI: The article notes that several Paul VI athletes are playing key roles in their undefeated run but doesn't specify individual names.
• Shawnee’s Ryan Stankus: Stankus is highlighted as a crucial player for Shawnee, contributing significantly to their success with his all-around game.

Looking Ahead: Conference Realignment & Tournament Implications

The article touches briefly on the impact of conference realignment in South Jersey. The changes have created new rivalries and shifted the competitive landscape, making it difficult to predict outcomes. As teams navigate these adjustments, the tournament bracket is taking shape. Ocean City’s unexpected success puts them squarely in contention for a Group III title, while Camden and Paul VI are expected to be top seeds in their respective groups. The article emphasizes that the remaining weeks of regular season play will be crucial for seeding purposes and determining which teams have what it takes to make a deep tournament run. The focus is now on maintaining momentum, avoiding key injuries, and preparing mentally and physically for the challenges ahead.

I hope this summary accurately reflects the content of the NJ.com article and provides a useful overview of the South Jersey boys basketball scene! Let me know if you'd like any specific aspects elaborated further or clarified.