Men’s Basketball Bounces Back With Home Win Over Allegany

Chesapeake College's men's basketball entered Skipjack Arena on Friday night, February 7^th riding a two game losing streak, both of which came against Maryland JUCO opponents. Playing at home for the first time in two weeks, the Skipjacks hit the hardwood against Allegany College of Maryland ready to get back in the win column. The Skipjacks didn't disappoint as they would go on to earn a convincing 90-65 victory over the Trojans. With the win, Chesapeake improved to 14-7 overall and 6-4 in MD JUCO play.

Both squads struggled to score in the first ten minutes as Chesapeake held a slim 15-9 lead midway through the first half before each team found their groove and had success shooting the ball. Chesapeake was able to stretch the defense of Allegany as they shot an efficient 53% (9 of 17) from beyond the arc which was able to open up scoring opportunities down low as well. Using the deep ball, Chesapeake was able to build upon their earlier lead and head into the half in control 41-30. Sophomore Amir Pettiford led the Skipjacks in scoring at the break with 11 points while adding 5 assists. Teammate Craig Turner wasn't far behind as he poured in 9 points on a perfect 3 for 3 from three point land.

Shortly into the second half the Skipjacks put together an 8-0 run to further distance themselves from Allegany who was now trailing 51-35 with over 16 minutes left. The Trojans were able to climb back within reach before Chesapeake exploded for another 8-0 run to again take control, now leading 59-43 with under 13 minutes left to play. Allegany continued to fight back but the Skipjacks were able to all but put the game away with a 10-0 run with under 7 minutes to play as Chesapeake now built up a 25 point cushion as they lead 50-75. The Skipjacks remained in control for the remainder of the contest as they would eventually take home the 90-65 victory.

Freshman Mahzi Thames finished as the top scorer with 22 points while grabbing 6 boards while teammate Damon Gomer (11 pts, 9 rebs) just missed out on a double-double in the victory. Chesapeake will travel to New Jersey to take on Raritan Valley Community College on Monday evening before returning home to face Prince George's Community College in the Skipjacks final home game of the 2019-2020 season. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 pm.