'Jacks to represent Md. in National Basketball Tournament

By BENJAMIN BRUNNER

COLUMBIA –  The Chesapeake College Women's Basketball team dominated the NJCAA Region XX Championship at Howard Community College this weekend; they will be the only team representing Maryland, when they travel to Arkansas next week to compete in the NJCAA DII National Championship.

Saturday's game against CCBC-Catonsville started with a three-point shot from Emily Truitt (23 points), who shot four total three-pointers, and scored 7-7 at the line. The first of two 10-0 Chesapeake runs was carried into the second quarter by Janice Ladson (21 points). The second 10-0 run was capped off by a shot from three by Chantelle Gross (11 points). The 'Jacks led 37-15 going into halftime, and dominated the third quarter with three's from Truitt, Chandni Taylor (8 points), and Natori Nesbit (3 points). Shahra Madison capped off  a 14-0 Chesapeake run, and recorded a double-double (10 points, 15 rebounds). Thanks to an early lead, and strong defense, the Skipjacks dominated the Cardinals 91-46.

Sunday's game against Garrett College was an offensive thriller. Emily Truitt (9 points) scored a three-point at the start, and both teams rebounded well, but turnovers and missed shots left Chesapeake behind 14-12 going into the second. Strong defensive play and another three-pointer from Truitt gave Chesapeake the lead, until a 9-0 run gave Garrett the 32-29 lead at the half. Both teams were tied for most of the third, until Garrett went on a 6-0 run, entering the fourth up by 7. Garrett's shooting went cold, and Chesapeake took advantage. A steal and breakaway lay-up from Janice Ladson (20 points) gave Chesapeake the lead. The 'Jacks defense held strong and sealed a 59-55 victory.