Clippers Close 2019 With a Win

By Terry Thomas

Chester (5-2) closed out the 15th Annual Pete/Jameer Nelson Holiday Classic and calendar year 2019 on a winning note with a 58-55 victory over the Haverford School Fords. The Clippers were energized from the start with Akeem Taylor Jr leading the way with 11 of his co-team high 17 points as Chester enjoyed a 17-13 lead at the close of the first quarter. The pace of the game slowed in the second quarter and the Clippers ability to knock down free throw shooting 6 of 7 allowed them to maintain their lead at the half. Chester - 27, Haverford School - 25.

With both teams playing solid defense in the 3rd quarter, scoring was at a premium with teams trading baskets. The Fords took the lead for the first time at the 3:00 mark, 34-33, and stretch it to 36-33 with Chester calling for a timeout at 1:55. Chester hot free throw shooting continued as they went 4 for 4 on their next two possession to regain the lead, 37-36, going into the final 8 minutes.

Haverford with possession to start the 4th quarter scored to regain the lead 38-37. Akeem Taylor putback off a missed Zahmir Carroll shot gave the Clippers the lead for good, 39-38, at the 7:15 mark. Junior Karell Watkins made his presence felt in the stanza dropping 9 of his 17 points as the Clippers enjoyed a 7 points cushion, 50-43, midway through the final quarter. Chester maintained two possession lead until the Fords hit a trey as the buzzer sounded to end the contest.

Watkins completed another double-double as he hauled in 10 rebounds to go along with his 17 points. Seniors Zahmir Carroll and Rahmee Gilbert contributed 9 and 8 points while junior Fareed Burton Jr added 5 and senior Faheem Berry chipped in a bucket.

Chester will return to the Clip Joint on Saturday, January 4th when they host the Bartram Braves. The JV will tip-off at 1:30 p.m. with the Varsity to follow at 3:00 p.m. This will mark the first of three home games before the Clippers hit the road for their next seven (7) games. Del Val opponents Penn Wood (Tues, Jan 7th) and Academy Park (Thurs, Jan 9th) will close out the short home stand.

Happy New Year! .... See you in 2020

Dave Burman's broadcast of the game on delcohoops.com https://content.blubrry.com/havenfootball/12-30-2019_Hav_Sch_vs_Chester.mp3