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St. Benedict's Claims Victory at 8th Annual Sam Cali Invitational

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Saturday, December 27th 2025 at 21:07 GMT by NJ.com

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Domination and Drama: A Recap of the 8th Annual Sam Cali Invitational

The 8th annual Sam Cali Invitational, held December 14-16, 2025, at Elizabeth High School in New Jersey, delivered a compelling mix of dominant performances, nail-biting finishes, and rising stars. The tournament, named after legendary coach Samuel “Sam” Cali, is a cornerstone of the high school basketball season in Union County and beyond, consistently attracting top teams from across the state. This year’s edition proved no exception, showcasing exceptional talent and competitive intensity throughout its bracketed format.

St. Benedict's Claims Championship Title with Impressive Display

The undisputed highlight of the tournament was St. Benedict's Greyhounds’ decisive victory over Linden High School in the championship game. The final score of 78-62, while reflecting a comfortable margin, doesn't fully capture the sheer dominance displayed by St. Benedict's throughout the entire competition. They navigated their way through the bracket with relative ease, demonstrating a potent combination of offensive firepower and defensive tenacity. Their victory marked a significant achievement, solidifying their position as one of the top programs in New Jersey. [ You can view the full tournament bracket here ].

Key to St. Benedict’s success was the exceptional performance of junior guard, Darius "DJ" Johnson. Johnson, consistently recognized as a rising star in the state, lived up to his reputation with explosive scoring and impressive court vision throughout the tournament. He earned the title of Tournament MVP, a testament to his consistent impact on both ends of the floor. His ability to penetrate defenses and create opportunities for himself and his teammates proved crucial in dismantling Linden’s defensive strategies. Other notable contributors included forward Malik Reynolds, who anchored the team's rebounding efforts, and point guard Ethan Blake, whose ball-handling skills kept St. Benedict’s offense humming.

Linden Fights Valiantly, Secures Second Place

While ultimately falling short in the championship game, Linden High School demonstrated remarkable resilience and skill to reach the finals. Their journey through the tournament was marked by several hard-fought victories, showcasing their team's grit and determination. They overcame a tough challenge from Union Catholic in the semi-finals, demonstrating their ability to perform under pressure. [ Read more about that intense semi-final matchup here ].

Linden’s offense was spearheaded by senior guard, Jamal Thompson, who consistently posed a threat with his perimeter shooting and ability to drive to the basket. However, St. Benedict's stifling defense proved too much to overcome in the final game, limiting Thompson’s scoring opportunities and disrupting Linden’s offensive flow.

Other Standout Performances & Notable Games

Beyond the championship showdown, the Sam Cali Invitational provided plenty of compelling basketball action. Union Catholic’s impressive run to the semi-finals highlighted their emergence as a force to be reckoned with in the region. Their victory over Weequapack was particularly noteworthy, showcasing their team's defensive prowess and balanced scoring attack. Weequapack, despite the loss, demonstrated flashes of brilliance throughout the tournament, hinting at their potential for future success.

Elizabeth High School, as host school, also participated, providing a spirited performance against a competitive field. While they didn’t advance deep into the bracket, their participation added to the vibrant atmosphere and community spirit surrounding the event. The tournament consistently draws significant local support, with enthusiastic crowds filling the stands throughout the three days of competition.

Tournament Legacy & Sam Cali's Impact

The Sam Cali Invitational holds a special place in New Jersey high school basketball. It’s more than just a tournament; it’s a celebration of Coach Cali’s legacy and his profound impact on countless young athletes. Cali, known for his dedication to player development and his emphasis on sportsmanship, left an indelible mark on the Elizabeth community. The tournament serves as a reminder of his values and inspires players to strive for excellence both on and off the court. [ Learn more about Coach Cali's legacy here ].

Looking Ahead:

The 8th annual Sam Cali Invitational concluded with a resounding success, reaffirming its status as a premier high school basketball tournament in New Jersey. St. Benedict’s victory sets the stage for an exciting remainder of the season, while Linden's performance demonstrates their potential to contend for championships moving forward. The tournament provided valuable exposure for numerous players and teams, further solidifying its importance within the state’s athletic landscape. As preparations begin for next year’s event, anticipation is already building for another weekend filled with thrilling competition and memorable moments.

I hope this article provides a comprehensive summary of the Sam Cali Invitational as described in the provided NJ.com link!