Chantilly Gets Revenge; Hawks Lose in Semi-Finals 60-56

The quick turnaround did not benefit the Hawks this year, as they were unable to build upon yesterdays’ defeat of Godwin HS. This time around, a familiar foe foiled the Hawks attempt at a second Christmas Tourney championship. The Chargers of Chantilly, bouncing back from a loss to Hayfield on December 17, more than doubled their score from the previous loss, and handed the Hawks their 4^th loss of the season. The Hawks, although technically defeated by Chantilly, really beat themselves, turning the ball over 20 times, and missing 11 free throws.

The Hawks trailing the Chargers by 1 at the beginning of the 4^th, allowed Chantilly to run out to a 12 point lead, before mounting their comeback. Twice the Hawks had it down to 2 points, but were unable to cross the threshold, ultimately dropping the game by 4. In yesterday’s game, the Hawks had 3 players in double figures. Tonight, they were only able to muster one with C Eliet Donley (20pts, 8rebs, 2blks) scoring 20 points for the first time this season. PG Tyler Thornton (9pts, 3rebs, 7stls, 2assts) continued his excellent defensive play in the tourney, amassing 7 steals tonight, to increase his total to 12 over two games. Thornton also hit a key three pointer in the near comeback. For the first time this season SG Amir Atkins (7pts, 8rebs, 2stls) was kept below double figures, although his strong work on glass at both ends of the floor, kept many ball alive for the Hawks.

The Hawks have a chance to finish the tourney on a winning note, when they play for 3^rd place Saturday at 5:45pm at Lake Braddock HS vs. the winner of the McLean/John Paul the Great game.