LINDEN PUBLIC SCHOOLS

The win, which handed Newark its first loss of the season, also marked the Tigers’ much-anticipated return to their newly restored home court after early-season games were played at a neighboring facility in Rahway during repairs to the school auditorium’s court.

The game had an electric atmosphere, with Derek Armstead Mayor of Linden watching courtside alongside city officials, students, families, and members of the Linden Board of Education.

Reflecting on the Tigers’ performance, Armstead shared his pride and excitement, saying, “They came in 9-0, but after entering the lion’s den, they’re 9-1.”

𝐂𝐨𝐚𝐜𝐡 𝐑𝐢𝐜𝐞’𝐬 𝐇𝐨𝐦𝐞 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐮𝐭

Head Coach Mike Rice, in his first game on Linden High School’s home court, delivered a thrilling win that energized the Linden community. Known for his leadership at Rutgers University, Rice guided his players through clutch moments in the fourth quarter to secure a memorable victory.

Sophomore Abraham Desrosiers and juniors Jayden Holman and Jekhi Burma were instrumental in the Tigers’ success, delivering key plays that kept Linden in contention. Whether it was a critical rebound, a defensive stop, or a perfectly timed shot, the trio embodied the Tigers’ grit and determination.

“The resiliency of our student-athletes was amazing tonight,” Coach Rice said. “Abraham, Jayden, and Jekhi were exceptional. They basically played the entire game and kept making plays for one another. Even when they made mistakes, they didn’t hang their heads. Their teammates had their backs, and that’s why we came out on top.”

“For my first home opener here at Linden, this is one I’ll never forget,” Rice added.

𝐁𝐨𝐚𝐫𝐝 𝐌𝐞𝐦𝐛𝐞𝐫𝐬 𝐇𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐡𝐭 𝐓𝐞𝐚𝐦𝐰𝐨𝐫𝐤 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐇𝐞𝐚𝐫𝐭

The Tigers’ stellar performance inspired glowing praise from members of the Linden Board of Education, who were among the enthusiastic crowd.

Board President Dr. Marlene Berghammer commended the team’s perseverance. “You never quit until it’s over. This team fought with heart. They made some mistakes, but they never gave up. And that’s what winners do—winners never quit.”

Board Member Antoinette Pino emphasized the team’s collaborative effort. “The game was great. I enjoyed myself. The team was working together, and that’s what we want—work together. It was kinda slow at first, but then they started pulling it together, which I enjoyed most.”

For Board Member Maryam Elweshahy, attending her first basketball game, the experience was eye-opening. “It was really good. Everyone was dedicated. I could see all the players—they weren’t playing as individuals; they were playing as a team, and that’s all that matters.”

Board Member Malaysia Thomas shared her praise as well. “I think the boys did a phenomenal job. There were some moments where there was a need for improvement, but I think they did the best that they can, and we came out on top. So good job, team.”

𝐀 𝐓𝐫𝐢𝐮𝐦𝐩𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐭 𝐑𝐞𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐭𝐨 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐓𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐫𝐬’ 𝐃𝐞𝐧

This game wasn’t just a victory—it was a celebration of resilience and community pride. After weeks of playing "home" games in Rahway, the Tigers returned to their newly repaired gymnasium.

The upgraded court, paired with the packed stands and courtside spectators, created an unforgettable atmosphere.

“The energy tonight was incredible,” said one fan. “This wasn’t just a game—it was a celebration of everything the Tigers stand for.”

𝗦𝘂𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁 𝗣𝗲𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝗹𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘁𝘀 𝗥𝗢𝗔𝗥 𝗳𝗼𝗰𝘂𝘀

Superintendent Atiya Y. Perkins praised the Tigers for embodying the district’s ROAR mantra—Resilience, Opportunities, Achievements, and Relationships.

“Congratulations to Coach Rice and the LHS team for demonstrating resilience, seizing opportunities to succeed, achieving their end goal, and celebrating the relationships fostered through teamwork on and off the court. Go Tigers!” Perkins said.

Momentum for the Season Ahead

With this victory, the Tigers improved to 7-4, while Newark Collegiate Academy dropped to 8-1. The win not only showcased the Tigers’ strength under pressure but also cemented them as a team to watch this season.