FAIRFIELD, Conn. Fairfield Prep held off Ludlowe's last-second attempt at an upset in the Fairfield Holiday Classic consolation game Friday but lost its team leader in the process. William & Mary-bound senior Terry Tarpey had his second 30-plus point game in a row, but he landed awkwardly on his ankle trying to grab a rebound with 39 seconds to play.
Before anyone could take in the severity of Tarpey's injury, however, Prep had to hang on to its lead against the Falcons. Ludlowe's Justin Berardino heaved up a last-second attempt to win. But Prep's defense forced his shot to go wide, giving the Jesuits a dramatic 57-56 victory.
Ludlowe climbed back after trailing Prep, 45-31, after the third. Berardino and Connor Peterson led the comeback for the Falcons, with each netting 19 points.
Despite the injury, Tarpey netted 30 points and pulled down 14 rebounds for Prep. Tarpey and Prep head coach Leo Redgate said after the game that the injury appeared to be a sprained ankle. It was unclear how much time he would miss. Tarpey limped onto the court after the championship game to accept a trophy as part of the all-tournament team.
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