Chesapeake Boys Stave Off Northeast In 'Dena Showdown

The February 9 hardwood edition of the ‘Dena Bowl brought increased levels of importance as the both the Chesapeake and Northeast boys basketball teams were burning for a win.

The rivalry showdown lived up to the hype. A packed house made for a lively Friday-night atmosphere, and fans enjoyed awesome playmaking and end-to-end action as the Cougars outlasted the Eagles for a 60-56 victory.

Chesapeake seniors Trace Carleton and Joe Seidler made the most of senior-night festivities in leading their squad. Carleton racked up a game-high 18 points to go with four assists and three steals, while Seidler had 15 points, seven rebounds and four blocks. Fellow senior Matt Kern had a team-high six assists, while senior Dan Casalino started and pulled down three rebounds.

Dylan Young hit three 3-pointers in the first half and finished with 13 points to go with three assists and four rebounds. Russell Tongue made five steals, and Alonzo Wilkes had six points and five rebounds in the Cougars’ win.

The Cougars all reflected on the spirited game-night atmosphere that everyone — players, coaches, students, teachers and families — reveled in throughout the night.

“I don’t think anything tops this,” said Chesapeake coach Shawn Rebstock. “This is a great atmosphere. Northeast does a great job showing up, and it’s just a great atmosphere for these kids to play in.”

PHOTO GALLERY: Chesapeake vs. Northeast boys basketball, February 9, 2018

Despite the game being close throughout, the Cougars managed to close out the Eagles down the stretch by protecting the ball and sinking free throws. Chesapeake went 14 of 18 from the free-throw line; Northeast was six for 15.

The Cougars’ fast-rotating zone defense limited Northeast’s attack and contained the Eagles’ corps of outside shooters.

“When they play like a team, they’re fun to watch and fun to coach,” said Rebstock. “They drive me crazy sometimes, but I love these guys.”

Point guard Jaylin Albury led Northeast with 16 points, eight rebounds and three steals, while forward Anthony Stewart had 15 points and eight rebounds. Josh Cain added 10 points.

“We wanted to speed them up and pressure them, but they hit some shots early,” said Northeast coach Roger O’Dea. “Their three-two zone, they really sink it down, and we never really settled in and got the looks we wanted.”

O’Dea appreciated the game atmosphere even in defeat.

“It’s great,” he said. “I didn’t expect to [only have four wins], and I guarantee [Chesapeake] didn’t expect to [only have four wins], but it is still truly a great rivalry to be a part of.”

Seidler said he was glad the team fulfilled its intentions in front of a packed house.

“Our crowd was pretty good, and their crowd is always backing them up,” he said. “We executed all the things we needed to do.”

Young said the Cougars (5-16) fought hard to keep Northeast (4-16) from stealing a win late.

“They’re a great basketball team, and we knew we had to play all 32 minutes,” he said. “They got close and tied it a couple times. We just knew we had to finish around the basket, make our free throws down the stretch and see where it took us … [The atmosphere] was special. It’s a great way to go out for the seniors. We’ve played and I’ve known a bunch of them forever. It’s a great run, and it’s a great way for them to go out, beating our crosstown rivals.”

PHOTO GALLERY: Chesapeake vs. Northeast boys basketball, February 9, 2018