#5 Ranked Skipjacks Conquer The Dragons

WYE MILLS, MD - Skipjack Arena was most definitely the place to be on the evening of February 9th, '22 as the men's Chesapeake basketball team made an incredible appearance that had everyone in the vicinity captivated and greatly invested in the final outcome. After 2 full halves worth of game time, and an added overtime following a tie of 69-69, the Skipjacks were officially deemed the winners over the Howard Dragons with a final result of 85-82.

The first half of the evening was a precursor for the way in which the remainder of the evening would play out on both ends of the court. Chesapeake and Howard continuously battled back and forth, alternating for who would take over and hopefully hold the leading position of the competition. By the end of the first half, the Skipjacks went into halftime leading the Dragons 39-25.

The second half would prove to be a critical test for the home team who'd be defending their impressively earned 5th place ranking in NJCAA's Men's Basketball Division II rankings - meaning that every single second would be essential in securing the win. 

While tonight was undoubtedly a combined team effort in the end, there were leaders on the court who'd prove to make an immense impact on the scoreboard. Power players of the night were led by Skipjacks #11 Mahzi Thames who came out to put up an exceptional combination of 28 points, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals. Followed by #22 Craig Turner who earned another phenomenal 19 points of his own, as well as 6 rebounds for his team. #5 Jayshaun Freeman also proved to play a significant role on all ends of the court, solidifying 11 points, 7 assists and 5 rebounds. 

Chesapeake ended the evening with what is now an overall record of 18-1 and 7-0 in the region. Needless to say, the intense perseverance and dedication displayed in tonight's performance was indeed a commendable, visceral experience that only further substantiates the combined skill, heart, and talent fueling by the Skipjacks this season.

Chesapeake will return to Skipjack Arena on Friday February 11th to take on the College of Southern MD for a start time of 7 PM.