On the surface, it seems strange that Parker would assume such a vocal leadership role. He's a first-year player in the program, having transferred to Delsea in 2011 after three years at Vineland.
But it was typical for the 6-foot-5, 260-pound center. He has been known to speak his mind.
"I've been told that many times," Parker said. "I don't want to overstep my boundaries. But Coach has told me he wants me to speak up and be a leader on this team. It comes natural to me."
Parker did more than talk a good game. He also generated 19 points and 11 rebounds as Delsea improved to 12-3 overall and held first place in the Tri-County Royal with a 5-1 division mark.
Reim's shot was a YouTube special. The junior guard made the shot off the move, crossing over to beat a defender just in front of half-court before launching the prayer that was answered after the buzzer sounded.
It was strange, too, since neither Clearview nor Delsea could buy a jumper all night. The Pioneers made one other shot outside the paint, and the Crusaders made zero, but the teams were a combined 1 for 1 on 45-footers.
"We just couldn't make a shot," said Clearview coach Tom Gross, whose team dropped to 9-4 overall and 3-3 in the division.
The dramatic three-pointer seemed to energize Delsea as much as Clearview, however.
The Crusaders took over in the extra period, as Parker and junior forward Cedric Elleby (15 points, 19 rebounds) combined for 10 points. Delsea had scored just four in the fourth quarter (three by Parker) and just seven in the second half (five by Parker).
"He was the difference," Freeman said of Parker.
Parker was 7 for 9 from the field and 5 for 7 from the foul line. He snapped a 22-22 tie with two free throws with 0:36 on the clock in regulation, and made both of his free throws in overtime.
"Nobody that size is supposed to make all his free throws in high school," Gross said. "Parker is getting better every single game. He's hitting jump shots. He's inside. He's outside."
