New Prague upsets Class 3A defending champs

By David La Vaque, Star Tribune, 03/23/11, 10:50PM CDT

Trojans edge No. 1 seed St. Paul Johnson 83-77 in quarterfinals

St. Paul Johnson senior Roosevelt Scott New drives to the basket against Prague senior Joe Hatch at a Class 3A quarterfinal game on Wednesday at Williams Arena in Minneapolis. Jules Ameel, Star Tribune

New Prague’s Jed Kreuser celebrated his second consecutive three-pointer in the opening minutes of Wednesday’s state tournament quarterfinals as if the Trojans had won the game.

Turns out the jump in his step and the pumping of his fist were prophetic. Kreuser would later hit a three-pointer to give his team a lead it would not relinquish in a stunning 83-77 victory against defending Class 3A champion and No. 1 seed St. Paul Johnson at Williams Arena.

“I get a little too excited sometimes,” Kreuser said “I’m one of those players that feeds off the fans.”

An overnight snowstorm prevented much of the Trojans’ student section from arriving until just before the 10 a.m. tipoff. But they were in full voice in the second half as New Prague went on a crucial 12-0 run.

Down 66-59 with 5:12 to play, New Prague built its comeback on defense and strong shooting. Joe Hatch hit a three-pointer, drew a foul and completed a four-point play. Alex Dittberner added a layup, and the Governors’ lead was cut to one point at 66-65.

Then New Prague emulated the Governors’ pressure defense. Trevor O’Brien blocked a shot from St. Paul Johnson standout Estan Tyler. Hatch later stole the ball and passed it to Kreuser, who was waiting behind the three-point line. His shot fell, and New Prague led 68-66.

The Trojans did not relent. A steal by Cale Girten resulted in a Hatch layup and a 70-66 lead. An O’Brien free throw completed the run.

“We got some scrappy turnovers and took advantage,” Hatch said. “It got the crowd going and got us jacked.”

Hatch and Kreuser finished the game with five three-pointers. Hatch was a perfect 5-for-5. The Trojans were 14-for-23.

“We knew that with their gambling style of defense, we might get some open looks,” Hatch said. “Luckily we were hitting tonight.”

Governors coach Vernon Simmons said his team, which led by 10 points during the second half, overlooked New Prague. St. Paul Johnson committed 17 turnovers — 12 in the second half.

“Either you come with it or you don’t,” Simmons said. “There’s no button you press