Plainfield Tops Montgomery 49-40 in NJSIAA Group IV Final at Jersey Mike’s Arena

Nicholas Mistretta

MHS ’79 Cougar Sports Correspondent

PISCATAWAY, NJ – The Montgomery High School boys basketball team’s remarkable season came to a close Saturday night with a 49-40 loss to Plainfield in the NJSIAA Group IV state championship game at Jersey Mike’s Arena on the campus of Rutgers University.

In what was a hard-fought battle between two of the state’s top teams, the Cougars stayed within striking distance for much of the game before Plainfield pulled away in the final quarter to secure its second consecutive Group IV championship.

The matchup marked a rematch of last year’s state final, once again bringing Montgomery and Plainfield together on one of New Jersey’s biggest high school basketball stages.

For three quarters, the contest remained tightly contested. Montgomery matched the Cardinals possession for possession, keeping the game close with strong defensive play and timely scoring. But in the fourth quarter, Plainfield found its rhythm, creating separation and closing out the game to claim the 49-40 victory.

Despite the outcome, the Cougars delivered a performance that reflected the determination and resilience that defined their season.

Senior Ethan Lin led Montgomery with 20 points, leaving everything on the court in what was the final game of his Montgomery High School career. Lin’s performance capped a standout season and helped keep the Cougars competitive throughout the night.

While the loss ended Montgomery’s championship bid, the Cougars’ season remains one to remember. The team’s deep playoff run and return to the Group IV final underscored the strength of the program and the dedication of its players.

Plainfield’s victory secured back-to-back state titles and affirmed the Cardinals’ place among New Jersey’s top programs.

For Montgomery, the disappointment of falling just short was tempered by pride in a season defined by hard work, team chemistry and memorable performances. Players and coaches alike can hold their heads high after another outstanding campaign that brought the Cougars back to the state’s biggest stage.

Photo Credit: Nicholas Mistretta/headlinenewsmontgomery.com