Tilghman, Carroll ready to play role of favorites

By MATT CHANDIK

Austin Tilghman has heard all the buzz making its way around the halls at Archbishop Carroll.

If those walls could talk, they’d probably chime in on the conversation as to how the Patriots are considered one of the state’s elite teams and a veritable threat for the Catholic League and PIAA Class AAA crowns.

It’s been the only thing on the Patriots’ mind since falling to Imhotep Charter, 54-45, in last year’s state title game at the Giant Center. That Carroll team was a Cinderella outfit, almost cast aside after losing to Philadelphia Electrical in the District 12 third-place game.

This year’s team, though, won’t be any sneaking up on anyone. And if Tilghman needs an introduction to the rigors of the Catholic League, his classmates are making sure he gets it.

Archbishop Carroll coach Paul Romanczuk, left, making a point as center Ernest Aflakpui looks on, is ready to have his talent-laden Patriots labeled as one of the favorites statewide in Class AAA. (Robert J.Gurecki)

“A lot of kids talk about it in school,’ said Tilghman, a senior point guard who transferred from St. Andrew’s in Delaware. “The big crowds, the exciting games. I think I’m ready for it. I haven’t experienced it yet, but I’m definitely ready for it.’