In a battle between the Shore's top two scorers, Rob Higgins and Middletown North came out on top of Daniel Sofield and Jackson Liberty thanks to a stellar defensive effort.
Three McDonald's Americans will be on the floor for Wednesday night's main event at the Shore Challenge, pitting nationally-ranked Ranney vs. Roselle Catholic.
Daniel Sofield put up 21 points, 10 rebounds and six assists to lead Jackson Liberty to a crucial win over previously-unbeaten Pinelands on Thursday night.
Daniel Sofield and his family were fortunate to escape a fatal car accident Sunday night unharmed. Two nights later, the Jackson Liberty senior scored 59 points in a record-setting performance.
Brick Memorial's Kevin Starrett hit a game-winning shot to wipe out the storybook ending to Thursday's celebration at Jackson Liberty, where Daniel Sofield joined his older brother in the school's 1,000-point club.