Reading-Chester Rivalry

4,290 is a big number. That’s the amount of victories that the Reading and Chester boys basketball programs have accumulated. The Red Knights and Clippers rank first and second in wins in Pennsylvania history. They will square off on Saturday in the first round of the PIAA-6A playoffs. It’s a 1pm tip in Chester.

Reading holds the state record with 2,265 all-time wins. The Red Knights have captured three state championships in the past seven years. They knocked off Roman Catholic 63-56 in overtime for the Class 6A crown a season ago. Reading owns a record 24 District 3 titles.

Chester has racked up 2,025 victories in its illustrious history. The Clippers have won eight state championships. They’ve been the PIAA runner-up ten times. Chester has brought home gold from 25 District 1 tournaments.

Reading is (19-10) this season. The Red Knights finished fourth in the District 3-6A bracket. Chester also ended up fourth in its district playoffs. The Clippers slipped to (20-4) after falling to West Chester Henderson 65-61 in the third place contest. Dominic Toy led Chester with 19 points. The 6’5, 220-pound senior is a tight end during football season. He’s committed to UConn.

This will be the 43rd meeting between Reading and Chester. The heated rivalry is even at (21-21). The Red Knights have won three straight in the series including a 71-57 victory last season at the Geigle Complex. Ruben Rodriguez dropped 26 points in that matchup and Yadiel Cruz added 14 points. Rodriguez is now playing at Rider. Cruz has become the BCIAA Player of the Year. The 6’2 senior leads Berks County at 22 points per game.