Harlem Wizards Vs Buzzer Beaters.
Story by Morgan Satter ’25
The Harlem Wizards came, saw, and conquered through the halls of Brick Memorial on Tuesday night, March 12th. Thanks to the PTA and PTSA, both Lanes Mill Elementary and Brick Memorial High School students, plus families got to see the world-famous team in action. This night was not only filled with laughter, joy, and memories but an amazing show from the Harlem Wizards, and our town’s very own Buzzer Beater’s.
These outstanding Buzzer Beater’s were a combination of staff members from Lanes Mill Elementary, Veterans Memorial Elementary, Veterans Memorial Middle School, and Brick Memorial High School. Our wonderful team was coached by Mr. Ed Surluca, and Mr. Dan O’Cone. We not only thank everyone who came out to show some support, but also each and every staff member who took part. We’d also like to thank all volunteers who helped staff the event, it wouldn’t have been possible without you or anyone in attendance. We’d also like to thank all the Wizards who came out, especially Eric “Broadway” Jones, who is sharing his last few games with us. He “couldn’t have asked for a better part of his life to share. Especially when crowds are so full of joy. Being a wizard is special. I realize that I’m an ordinary person with an extraordinary job.” Arnold “A-Train” Bernard expressed the same regards, “The coolest part about being a wizard is that it is like one big family.”
The night was jam-packed with activities for all ages, before the game started there was a VIP meet and greet with Leon “Space Jam” Sewell, and Lloyd “Loonatik” Clinton, where they put on a prequel to the upcoming show. There were autograph signings, selling of merchandise and even a few challenges for those who were up to it. Now there’s no way we could forget to mention the outstanding Wiz Kids, who got to warm up on the basketball court with Karl “Mr.Bounce” Lewis Jr, and Devon “Livewire” Curry. They went through their whole warm-up, stretching and shooting. Even playing a few games throughout. These little stars got to sit courtside to enjoy all the fun directly in front of them.
The night started and concluded with screaming joy, and friendly competition. From all the jokes, dancing and games throughout, the Brick Buzzer Beater’s fell to an unfortunate loss 40-39 against the conquering Harlem Wizards. The Buzzer Beater’s will beat them next time, with a buzzer-beater.
Thank you to Judy Sandomierski, Kevin Mosely, Tom Lecorchick, Laura Walski, Beth Reilly, Sara Ball, Kristi McCullough, Steve Ferullo, Liz Leone, Justin Szuba, Matt Guastaferro, Alex Zulewski, Kevin Bettys, and Bill Hoermann for playing and to Marilylnn Schaufele, Jenn Lane, Chris Thompson, Amy Fitzgerald, Breen Meyerle, Jackie Castellano, Judy Harzer, and Maria Lupo for their help in running the event!! Thank you to Michele Pierce for organizing the event!
