Joey Chapman-Reading

Joey Chapman made the biggest steal in the history of Reading High basketball. His defensive effort in the final seconds helped the Red Knights hold off Archbishop Wood 58-57 in last season’s Class 6A state championship game. Chapman came up with another defensive gem tonight to close out Reading’s 60-57 season-opening win over Imhotep Charter. Chapman stripped Ahmad Nowell with one second left to end the thriller at Albright. Nowell is one of the highest-ranked sophomores in the nation. He finished with 20 points to lead the Panthers who were without Rider commit Mo Abdullah for the Hoop Group showcase. The Red Knights raced out to an 11-2 advantage. They trailed 28-24 at halftime before outscoring Imhotep 16-9 in the third quarter. Reading was up eleven with six minutes to go, but the Panthers didn’t go away. They clawed within two points in the final minute. Chapman made two critical free throws down the stretch. He shot just 42% from the foul line last season. The physical senior guard spent a lot of time practicing this offseason. Chapman told me that he’s looking to score more this year. He didn’t disappoint with 16 points against Imhotep; one shy of his career high. Chapman averaged just six points as a junior. He has been a fixture in Rick Perez’s rotation since his freshman year. Chapman opened a lot of eyes with 12 points in his first game at Chester. We talked about the fan support at Albright, and the bond that Chapman has with his teammates. He managed to keep his composure during our interview despite the antics of Xavier Davis who made two unexpected appearances. Chapman stressed that Davis is a tremendous leader. We also discussed the advice that Chapman received from his coaches before the game. Daniel Alcantara erupted for 27 points, tying his career high. All-state guard Ruben Rodriguez added six points. Rodriguez took a hard fall and left the game late in the third quarter. He later told me that it was just a cramp and he’s fine. Reading struggled at the FT line. The Red Knights were 6-for-13. 6’8 junior Justin Edwards came alive late for the Panthers. He scored 13 points while dealing with foul trouble. Edwards is ranked #16 in the Class of 2023 by ESPN. He has nearly twenty Division I offers including Kentucky. Reading will now get ready for a matchup with McCaskey on Tuesday.