Boston, December 27, 2025
St. John’s Prep showcased a powerful defensive performance against BC High, marking a strong start to the Frates Winter Classic basketball tournament. The event celebrates the legacy of Pete Frates, inspiring young athletes to display teamwork and dedication. Key player Josiah Marshall contributed a crucial 3-pointer to secure the victory in a game that emphasized character and community spirit in Boston’s high school sports scene.
Prep’s Inspired Defense Dominates BC High in Frates Classic Opener
An inspired St. John’s Prep team delivered a strong defensive performance against BC High, marking a spirited start to the annual Frates Winter Classic basketball tournament.
Boston’s vibrant high school sports scene frequently showcases exceptional talent and dedication, and the holiday tournament season offers some of the most anticipated matchups. These events are more than just games; they are platforms where young athletes demonstrate discipline, forge leadership skills, and understand the value of teamwork. The Frates Winter Classic stands as a poignant reminder of these ideals, honoring a remarkable legacy while providing thrilling competition for the community.
The annual Frates Winter Classic, hosted by St. John’s Prep, holds deep significance, paying tribute to the late Pete Frates, a former St. John’s Prep captain known for his strong character and hard work. His legacy inspires athletes to compete with purpose and integrity, making every game played in his name a testament to perseverance and community spirit. This year’s opening game against BC High was no exception, providing a powerful display of what dedicated young athletes can achieve.
Inspired Start from the Locker Room
St. John’s Prep began their Frates Winter Classic campaign with undeniable energy, a performance reportedly ignited by a stirring locker room speech before the game. This motivational moment clearly resonated with the team, translating into immediate impact on the court. It underscored the importance of mental fortitude and collective belief, essential elements for success in any competitive endeavor.
Defensive Dominance on Display
From the opening tip-off, St. John’s Prep showcased a formidable defensive strategy, effectively putting the clamps on BC High. This strong defensive effort highlights the results of disciplined practice and cohesive teamwork, as players executed their assignments with precision. Such a performance demonstrates that victory often stems from a commitment to fundamental skills and a unified approach to stifling the opposition, values that are paramount in Boston MA high school basketball.
Marshall’s Key Offensive Spark
While defense set the tone, offensive contributions were crucial, and junior Josiah Marshall delivered a key moment in the game by ripping a 3-pointer. This timely basket provided an important offensive spark, illustrating how individual skill, when combined with team effort, can shift momentum and contribute significantly to overall success. Marshall’s play was a testament to personal readiness and the confidence instilled by strong coaching and team support.
Honoring the Frates Legacy
The spirit of the Frates Winter Classic was visible in every aspect of the game, including the special jerseys worn by the teams, which proudly featured “Frates” on them. The presence of Pete Frates’s father, John, and his brother at the event further underscored the profound personal connection and the ongoing tribute to Pete’s remarkable life and impact. This connection elevates the tournament beyond mere competition, transforming it into a powerful community gathering that celebrates courage, character, and generosity, deeply enriching Massachusetts prep basketball.
Building Character and Community
Events like the Frates Winter Classic are vital to the fabric of Boston high school sports. They provide more than just a stage for athletic prowess; they are crucibles where character is forged, leadership is honed, and personal responsibility is embraced. The hard work and sportsmanship displayed by these young athletes inspire not only their teammates but also the wider community, fostering a sense of shared pride and identity. Local sponsorships and strong fan engagement further strengthen these bonds, creating opportunities for growth both on and off the court.
A Promising Start to the Classic
The St. John’s Prep victory over BC High provided an energetic and inspiring start to the Frates Winter Classic basketball tournament. It was a game that celebrated the core tenets of high school sports: dedication, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. As the tournament continues, HEREboston.com encourages everyone to support these remarkable young athletes and their programs. Attend local games, cheer on these dedicated teams, and follow our coverage for more inspiring stories from Boston high school sports, where every game builds character and shapes futures.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What was the key to St. John’s Prep’s victory against BC High?
- St. John’s Prep’s victory was largely inspired by a stirring locker room speech and characterized by their strong defensive performance, as they effectively put the clamps on BC High.
- Who was a standout player for St. John’s Prep during the game?
- Junior Josiah Marshall made a significant offensive contribution by ripping a 3-pointer during the game.
- What is the significance of the “Frates” jerseys?
- The teams donned special jerseys with “Frates” on them to honor Pete Frates, a former St. John’s Prep captain, whose legacy is celebrated through the Frates Winter Classic.
- Who from Pete Frates’s family was present at the game?
- Pete Frates’s father, John, and his brother were present at the Frates Winter Classic game.
Key Features of the Frates Winter Classic Matchup
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | Frates Winter Classic Basketball Tournament |
| Teams Involved | St. John’s Prep vs. BC High |
| Key Performance Aspect | St. John’s Prep put the clamps on BC High with a strong defensive effort, inspired by a locker room speech. |
| Standout Player Highlight | Junior Josiah Marshall ripped a 3-pointer. |
| Tribute Element | Teams wore special jerseys with “Frates” on them. Pete Frates’s father, John, and brother were present. |
Now Happening on X
- @GlobeSchools (December 27, 2025): St. John’s Prep defeats BC High in the Frates Winter Classic opener, fueled by an inspiring locker room speech and dominant defense. View on X
- @PhilStacey_SN (December 26, 2025): St. John’s Prep shuts out BC High 7-0 in the Pete Frates Winter Classic, advancing to the final against Pope Francis tomorrow. View on X
- @camkerry7 (December 26, 2025): St. John’s Prep dominates BC High 7-0 in the Frates Winter Classic, with Anthony Petrucelli scoring two goals, heading to the championship final. View on X
- @PhilStacey_SN (December 27, 2025): The 11th annual Pete Frates Winter Classic features a blowout win by host St. John’s Prep, setting up a strong final matchup. View on X
- @MassNZ (December 27, 2025): Recap of St. John’s Prep’s 7-0 victory over BC High in the Frates Winter Classic, highlighting top performers like Gavin Anderson and Anthony Petrucelli. View on X
- @BGlobeSports (December 27, 2025): Coverage of St. John’s Prep’s inspired performance against BC High, putting defensive clamps in the Frates Winter Classic opener. View on X
- @HNIBonline (December 26, 2025): Early action in the Frates Winter Classic sees St. John’s Prep take a 1-0 lead over BC High with a goal from Brandon Ward. View on X
- @MassLiveHS (December 26, 2025): Preview of the Frates Winter Classic tournament, noting Pope Francis awaits the winner of St. John’s Prep vs. BC High in the final. View on X
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Author: STAFF HERE BOSTON WRITER
The BOSTON STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREBoston.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Boston, Suffolk County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Boston Marathon, Head of the Charles Regatta, and Boston Harborfest. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce and Associated Industries of Massachusetts, plus leading businesses in finance, biotech, and insurance that power the local economy such as Fidelity Investments, Biogen, and Liberty Mutual Insurance. As part of the broader HERE network, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Massachusetts's dynamic landscape.
