Coke and Pepsi, Aiellos and Mineo’s, Steelers and Ravens… St. Bede vs Sacred Heart. This elementary school rivalry has been around for decades. However this rivalry does not reach its peak in grade school but in high school. The sport is CYM basketball and every year the Pittsburgh Diocesan basketball league becomes more popular and more competitive. CYM basketball for many is a fun way for Central Catholic students to compete in the game of basketball while representing their grade school alma mater.

The St. Bede vs Sacred Heart CYM match-up is usually the most attended game of the season. Many Central and Oakland Catholic students come watch this game, even if they did not attend either grade school. This game has turned into way more than a rivalry over the years. Even if you have never played basketball, this game relates everyone. Whether you’re there to cheer on a friend or just to hang out, this game never disappoints. This match-up became so popular that last year, it was played in Central’s gym.

This year, the first game between these two teams was played on January 15^th. Sacred Heart came into the game undefeated as a heavy favorite. Many believed that this game would be a blowout. The bleachers were filled and the two teams began warming up to “Livin on a Prayer” by Bon Jovi. The excitement was visible in the crowd, this game meant a lot to both teams. This was not only an important section game, but bragging rights were also on the line as well.

The game was off to a slow start with a score of six to eight after the first five minutes of play. As the second quarter began, the game began to pick up the pace. Many three-pointers were taken on both teams but the success of these shots were in St. Bede’s favor. In the second quarter, Joey Gatti caught fire making almost every three pointer he took. The crowd was going crazy after he shot he made. It was a close game at halftime but St. Bede had all the momentum after a Joey Gatti buzzer beater at the half. At the end of the third quarter St. Bede ran up the score and created a nine point lead at the end of the quarter. Sacred Heart bounced back in the fourth quarter, making it a two point game at the two minute mark. However St. Bede stayed maintained the lead and and the “It’s all over!” chants began rolling in from the crowd. St. Bede came out on top with a  final score of 55-47. Joey Gatti finished as St. Bede’s leading scorer that game with 32 points. Tommy O’Connor led Sacred Heart in scoring with 14 points.

The first matchup between these teams was a success in terms of attendance and entertainment. The crowd was very active the whole game and did not hold back on their chants and cheering. Currently Sacred Heart has a better record of nine wins and three loses compared to St. Bede’s 8-4 record. These teams are both pursuing a spot for the playoffs so every game counts. The next matchup between these two teams is February 16^th at 8:30pm.

Be there.