Chester edges Imhotep, 63-61

The filled-to-capacity crowd at Widener University was already rocking by the time Chester got to within a basket of Imhotep Charter.

Loud all game, the fans made their presence known when the Clippers tied the score at 54, and again at 61.

But the possible noise volume of the crowd at the Pete and Jameer Nelson Classic couldn't truly be gauged until Rondae Jefferson made an unbelievable post move and placed the ball over his shoulder and off the glass for a reverse layup, giving Chester the lead with 7.8 seconds remaining.

A stop at the other end of the floor solidified the comeback, as Chester defeated Imhotep Charter, 63-61, Friday night.

Trailing for most of the game, Chester won its 57th straight game against Pennsylvania teams. The Clippers haven't lost to an in-state opponent since March 2010, when it was defeated by La Salle in a consolation-round game of the PIAA Class AAAA state tournament.

After getting out to an early lead Friday, Chester (6-2) seemed to be in control, shooting well from the field and controlling the boards.

The Clippers, the No. 1 team in The Inquirer's Southeastern Pennsylvania rankings, won the fast-paced and physical game by outscoring the No. 5 Panthers, 38-29, in the second half.

Imhotep had led by 32-25 at halftime and 50-47 after three quarters.