Chester boy's basketball defeats J.P. McCaskey

The Clipper improve to 2-0 in this young season with a thrilling 86-80 victory over the host Lancaster J.P. McCaskey Red Tornadoes. 

Once again Chester was led by Tyrell Sturdivant who captured his second double double in as many games with 20 points and 12 rebounds. But it was the play of 6'7" sophomore Marquis Collins that had the standing room only crowd abuzz. Marquis accounted for the first of what should be many double doubles with 17 points and a game high 14 rebounds. He also accounted for two blocks and a steal. 

While Mahir Johnson led the way in the first half scoring 15 of his 16 points, senior Conrad Chambers was key in the second half scoring 10 of his 12 points including hitting four consecutive free throws to help ice the contest. Sophomore Jahmi Bailey made his presence felt in the pivotal third quarter scoring all 9 of his points as the Clippers doubled their halftime margin of six points to take a 12 point lead into the final period. Score: Chester - 68, McCaskey - 56. 

When 6'8' Sturdivant exited the game in the tight 4th quarter with 3:11 on the clock due to an cut over his right eye, fellow 6'8" senior Gabe Adesina made his presence known with a blocked shot, two key rebounds and more importantly went 2 for 2 from the line making the score 86 - 80 with 7 seconds remaining in the contest. Keyonte Watkins (5), Khaleeq Campbell (3) and Da'Saun Campbell (2) completed Chester's scoring. 

Chester will continue their road trip on Friday, December 13th when they travel to Albright College in Reading, Pa to take on the Reading Red Knights in the 8:00 p.m. main event of the Hoop Group Showcase.

McCaskey's Head Coach Steve 'Bird' Powell, a Clipper alumni, still sits at 397 wins having lost two close contests, 68-74 to Roman Catholic and tonight's contest with the Clippers. With the effort his team puts forth it's only a matter of time before 'Bird' reaches that historic milestone.

by Terry Thomas