Raiders rough up Eagles
~February 20, 2008~Boys Playoffs
Story and Photos by Michael Orr

Keenan's Ryan Norris soars in for a lay up.

With a ferocious defense and a fast paced offensive attack, the Keenan Raiders completely dismantled the visiting Chesnee Eagles in the 2A state quarterfinals February 20.

Keenan turned a 15 point halftime lead into a 45 point victory as Ryan Norris led the way with 18 points.

Norris and Bradley Smith opened the game by scoring 11 of Keenan's 14 first quarter points, scoring inside against a much smaller Chesnee defense. The rebounding edge went to Keenan early as well, and the Raiders controlled the game in the early minutes. Chesnee countered with a very deliberate, drive- and- dish offense aimed at getting to the hoop or creating an open jump shot. DaJohn Rowland was the featured guard for the Eagles, leading the team on both ends of the floor. Keenan finished the first quarter leading 14- 8.

In the second quarter, the Raiders exploited their size advantage, forced fouls, and earned free throw attempts. The majority of Keenan's second quarter points came from the line. More importantly, the Raider defense was tremendous, blocking shots and leading to fast break opportunities. The man- to- man defense employed by Keenan stifled the Chesnee offense and caused frustration.

Keenan's Dennis Rowe shoots in the lane over Chesnee defenders.

The Raiders were relentless in their pressure, both offensively and defensively, and Chesnee began to crack. Rowland scored six late points to keep the Eagles alive as Keenan led at the break, 31- 16.

Chesnee simply ran out of gas in the third quarter as Keenan used its deep rotation and never- ending defensive intensity to overcome the Eagles. Norris, Rodrick Cannon, and Jacob Green each scored at least five points and the Raider defense again held Chesnee to an eight point quarter.

Already leading by 20 points midway through the third, Keenan embarked on a 13- 0 run to put the game out of reach. While Chesnee played hard, their efforts were not rewarded with success and the Raider lead continued to grow, reaching 57- 24 after three quarters.

The fourth quarter was merely a formality as the Raiders employed its full complement of substitutes, earning them valuable minutes as the team continued toward the Upper State Championship. Despite playing against Keenan's second team, Chesnee was unable to make a dent, scoring only five points in the fourth. Ultimately, the Eagles withered under the direct and constant pressure of the Raiders' game plan.

Keenan's Bradley Smith throws down a dunk in the first half.

Keenan, who won back- to- back AAA state titles in 2000 and 2001, will play Southside High School for the Upper State Championship February 23 at Clemson University. Note: The Raiders' playoff run was stopped by Southside who beat them 75- 40 Saturday, February 23 in the Class 2A Upper State Final at Clemson University .