Chester Clippers Win Streak Reaches 8 Games

 By Terry Thomas

Chester (13-3) increased their win streak to eight game defeating Brooklyn Collegiate (NY) 68-63 at the 26^th Annual Battle By The Bay in Atlantic City, NJ. Kevin Rucker led the way with a team high 18 points. Brielynd White contributed 15 points and Larenzo Jerkins came through with a double-double, 14 points and matched his career high of 17 rebounds. He also contributed 4 assists. 2 blocked shots and 1 steal.

The Clippers spread the ball around in the first quarter putting six players in the scoring column and hold on to a 19-18 lead. Brielynd White led with way with 5 points followed by Jerkins and Terrence Cobb with 4 apiece. Rucker and Kyree Womack each chimed in with 2 points. The second quarter saw several lead changes as the teams increased their defensive intensity. Kevin Rucker came up big for the Clippers with 8 second quarter points as Chester stayed close. Olayinka Itabiyi and Womack each contributed a bucket with Jerkins adding a free throw but Chester trailed 32-33 at intermission.

The teams went back and forth during the third quarter with Brieilyn White connecting on two treys enroute to 8 third quarter points. Jerkins added 5, Rucker dropped in four and two crucial free throws from Cobb enabled the Clippers to regain the lead 51-49 at the conclusion of the third quarter.

The fourth quarter was a closely contested affair and a parade to the free throw line for the Clippers. Chester came up big hitting 9 of 13 to help secure the win. Jerkins and Womack each shot 3 of 4, Rucker was 2 of 3 and senior Isaiah Freeman was 1 of 2.

Although Freeman only produced 3 points in the contest, his footprint was all over the Atlantic City High School court. Isaiah finished with a career high 7 assists, matched his career high of 15 rebounds and walked away with 2 steals.

The Clippers team concept was in full display as all eight players put their names in the scoring column and the team had 16 assists on 24 made baskets. Team work at its best.

Team Scoring: White (15), Lowrie (2), Olayinka Itabiyi (2), Freeman (3), Rucker (18), Jerkins (14), Womack (7), Cobb (8).

The Clippers will return to Del Val League action on Tuesday, February 8^th when the Interboro Bucs visit the Clip Joint. The game will be stream on Cmpradio.net or the Chester Upland School District via YouTube. The JV tips off at 5:30 followed by the Varsity.