Colonial Heights stifles Charles City with big second quarter run

Charles City's Randy Brown Jr. (33) looks to get off a shot against Colonial Heights T.J. Freeman (left) and Cameron Hartso-Alsaidi (44).

Robb Johnson photo

Charles City’s boys’ 2022-23 campaign provided them some insight before they face several regional opponents to make a run at the playoffs. Facing a Colonial Heights Colonials team Monday night that they trailed by only two-points at the break in their first encounter seemed promising first.

But unlike in their first contest, Colonial Heights used a 21-5 run in the second quarter dispose of Charles City 82-55 Monday night.

In the first quarter, the hosts stayed close with Colonial Heights, not allowing the visitors to score on transition buckets. Charles City trailed 15-12 when a jumper by Colonial Cartier Coleman extended that lead to five as the teams transitioned into the second frame.

And from there, Colonial Heights went to a halfcourt trap, surprising the Panther guards and forcing several errors. The turnovers coupled with baskets provided the guests a 42-23 halftime advantage. The third and fourth quarter saw no give from Colonial Heights, as they continued to pressure Charles City and kept the hosts off balance, eventually claiming the double-digit win.

After the contest, Charles City Head Coach De’Quantae Mason spoke about his team’s effort despite the outcome.

“I think we improved on our fight, and we put our heads together and that is what he wanted,” the coach said. “I think we did awesome with our hearts, but our shots were not falling, and we had unnecessary turnovers at times. But we are going to be fine.”

Charles City’s Bryan Lewis Jr. and Taequan Williams both scored 20 apiece for the Panthers, who fall to 2-3 on the season. Randy Brown Jr. tossed in nine, Aidan Stewart pumped in three, Messiyah Greene added two, and Tyshawn Dennis chipped in with one.