Cherry Hill East Answers the Bell, Defeats Lenape in Statement Rematch

The memory of last season lingered long before the opening tip. When Cherry Hill East hosted Lenape, it was more than just another Olympic Conference game. It was a rematch of last year’s sectional final, and this time, a young and undefeated Cherry Hill East group was ready for the moment.

Lenape came out sharp, playing with urgency after a tough, last-second loss earlier in the week. The Indians knocked down shots early and matched Cherry Hill East’s energy, taking a slim one-point lead after the first quarter. The second period followed the same script, with both teams trading baskets and refusing to give ground. At halftime, the game still felt wide open, with neither side able to create separation.

Cherry Hill East began to impose its pace in the third quarter, tightening up defensively and finding cleaner looks offensively. Chris Abreu set the tone by attacking the rim, finishing through contact, and controlling the glass. His physical presence inside started to wear on Lenape, while Jamieson Young provided a spark on both ends, knocking down timely shots and creating turnovers that flipped momentum.

By the time the fourth quarter arrived, Cherry Hill East was in full control. The Cougars extended the lead with disciplined possessions, unselfish ball movement, and a defense that forced Lenape into rushed shots. Abreu continued to anchor the effort, finishing with 23 points and nine rebounds, while Young added 15 points and four steals to seal the deal. Cherry Hill East outscored Lenape 16–4 in the final frame, turning a tight contest into a 59–50 statement win.

After the game, Abreu pointed to trust and preparation as the difference.

“We knew exactly what this game meant. Last year’s loss was still in our minds,” he said. “It really comes down to the trust we have in each other. Everyone accepted their role and we focused on preparing for this game. The chemistry we have is huge for our success. We’re a family.”

As Cherry Hill East moves to 11–0, the identity of this group continues to sharpen.

“We’re always going to work our hardest no matter what the score is,” Abreu added. “We’re going to keep fighting.”

For a young team chasing its own standard, Thursday’s win was more than revenge. It was proof that Cherry Hill East has grown, learned, and is ready to be part of every conversation surrounding the state’s top teams.