PMHS boys basketball advanced to 16-3 on Wednesday with a 63-57 win over Rye. With this victory, the Pelicans have won the league for the first time since 2012, securing their position as the top dogs in Southern Westchester.

Pelham came out strong, holding a 15 point lead over the Garnets after the first quarter. Rye rallied, however, and eventually forced the game to overtime. Pelham was able to close it in OT with clutch shots from senior captain Matteo Johnson and junior Charlie Schellhammer.

Johnson led the effort with 24 points and eight rebounds. Schellhammer added in 20 points and five assists. Sophomore Jarid Plummer contributed 10 points.

“It’s an awesome feeling to win the league,” senior captain Charlie Gutch said. “But we know there’s much more to do to get where we want to be.”

Pelham looks to close their regular season with a win this upcoming Friday against Byram Hills. The last time these two met, Pelham came out victorious, winning 58-52.

The boys currently hold the two-seed in Section 1, Class A, which means they will play at home throughout the playoffs.