Sequels may not be the best at movie theaters, but make for box office matchups when it comes to championship games.

And that’s exactly what Friday’s Non-Public B Boys Basketball Final between St. Rose and Roselle Catholic will be.

After storming back to take a one-point lead into the final eight minutes of the 2023 final, the Purple Roses withered under an offensive onslaught from the Lions, ultimately capturing a sixth state title for Roselle. St. Rose would use that motivation to earn their sixth championship crown the next season, and after a pair of sensational playoff runs, the two meet again to try and become the 20th team in state history to win lucky number seven.

The Purple Roses look as good as ever, winning 23 contests, including a current eight game winning streak. Among those recent wins are blue-blood programs, Christian Brothers, Bergen Catholic, and Rutgers Prep, foes that should have them more than prepared for the state final.

They’ll be led by 6-6 superstar guard Jayden Hodge who’s already receiving a bevy of Division I offers. In 28 games this season he’s averaged 19.5 points, 6.1 rebounds, and 3.1 assists per game including 13 games of 20 or more points. Evan Romano (12.9 PPG), and Avery Lynch (9.7 PPG), have proved to be excellent options around Hodge, with Bryan Ebeling anchoring the defense.

On the other side Roselle Catholic have been just as good, featuring signature wins against fellow conference powerhouses Elizabeth and Plainfield, as well as a January win against Don Bosco.

Cardinal Hayes transfer Trevon Lewis has been the engine of the Lions, notching 18 points and 5.6 rebounds per game. He’s been unreal in the state playoffs posting a double-double against Saddle River Day, exploding for 39 points against Morris Catholic, and putting up 15 against Gill St. Bernard’s in a defensive battle.

He’s joined by fellow star juniors Tyrease Hunter (15.6 PPG), and Jalen Grant (12 PPG) to help power the vaunted Roselle Catholic offense.

This game’s got just about everything you could want, from superstars to storyline, so grab your popcorn and get ready for what’s sure to be an instant classic!