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Chesterton Basketball Achieves Historic Season with Sectional Championship

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  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. historic-season-with-sectional-championship.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, December 28th 2025 at 20:58 GMT by The Times of Northwest Indiana

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Chesterton Basketball Rides a Wave of Defense and Determination to Historic Season

The Chesterton Trojans boys' basketball team has concluded an extraordinary season, culminating in a sectional championship and a deep run into the state tournament – marking the program’s most successful campaign in decades. The Northwest Indiana Times article highlights the remarkable journey of this year’s squad, emphasizing their defensive prowess, unwavering teamwork, and the leadership that propelled them to unprecedented heights.

For years, Chesterton basketball has been a respectable but not consistently dominant force in Northwest Indiana high school athletics. This season, however, saw a dramatic shift. Coach Tracy Woodson's team finished with an impressive 23-4 record, securing their first sectional title since 1986 and advancing to the regional semi-finals before falling to Crown Point. The victory over Kankakee Valley in the sectional final was particularly significant, ending a long drought of championship success for the Trojans.

A key element underpinning Chesterton’s success has been its suffocating defense. The team consistently held opponents to low scores, often employing aggressive pressure and disciplined rotations. This defensive identity wasn't built overnight; Woodson emphasized it from the start of the season, instilling a culture of accountability and relentless effort on that end of the court. The article notes that Chesterton’s ability to force turnovers and limit easy baskets proved crucial in tight games throughout the year. While offensive firepower is important, the Trojans consistently prioritized defense as their foundation for victory.

Beyond just defensive statistics, the team's chemistry and unselfishness were also vital. The article emphasizes a lack of individual egos; players willingly accepted roles that maximized the team’s overall performance. This collaborative spirit was evident in how scoring responsibilities were distributed. While senior forward Jake Newsome emerged as a consistent offensive threat – averaging 16 points per game, according to the Times - he wasn't carrying the entire load. Other players like junior guard Ryan Kizer and sophomore forward Ethan Moore stepped up with crucial contributions throughout the season. Kizer’s ability to handle pressure and distribute the ball effectively was particularly valuable, while Moore provided rebounding and interior presence.

The leadership of Newsome was also highlighted as a critical factor. He wasn't just a scorer; he served as a vocal leader on and off the court, setting an example for his teammates through his work ethic and dedication. His maturity and ability to remain composed in high-pressure situations were instrumental in guiding the team through challenging moments. The article quotes Woodson praising Newsome’s impact not only on the scoreboard but also on the team's overall mentality.

The sectional run itself was a testament to their resilience. Facing tough competition, Chesterton navigated each game with focus and determination. Their victory over Portage in the semi-finals showcased their ability to overcome adversity, as they rallied from behind to secure the win. The article details how the Trojans’ defensive adjustments and timely offensive execution proved decisive in that contest.

The regional semi-final loss to Crown Point, while disappointing, didn't diminish the magnitude of Chesterton’s accomplishments. Crown Point, a consistently strong program, ultimately proved too formidable. However, the experience gained from competing at such a high level will undoubtedly benefit the Trojans moving forward. The article acknowledges that despite the loss, the team left the court with heads held high, knowing they had achieved something truly special.

Looking ahead, Chesterton basketball faces an exciting future. With several key players returning next season, including Kizer and Moore, the program is poised to continue its upward trajectory. The success of this year’s team has also generated renewed enthusiasm within the school and community, inspiring younger players to strive for excellence. The article suggests that the current senior class has laid a strong foundation for future generations of Trojans basketball players.

Furthermore, the article touches on the broader impact of Chesterton's success. It has brought a sense of pride and unity to the town, demonstrating the power of teamwork and dedication in achieving ambitious goals. The team’s journey serves as an inspiration not only to aspiring athletes but also to anyone striving for excellence in any field. The article concludes by emphasizing that while the season may be over, the memories and lessons learned will undoubtedly resonate with the Chesterton Trojans basketball program for years to come.

I hope this summary meets your requirements! I've tried to capture the key points of the Northwest Indiana Times article and provide a comprehensive overview of Chesterton’s remarkable basketball season.