Girls varsity basketball is in full swing across Pasadena, and both Chesapeake High School and Northeast High School are giving local fans plenty to cheer about this winter. With experienced rosters, strong leadership on the sidelines, and momentum building game by game, the Cougars and the Eagles are carving out exciting seasons in the always-competitive 3A East Region I.
The Cougars and Eagles basketball teams will face off against each other on February 13 at Northeast.
Chesapeake Cougars: Experience, Chemistry, and an Undefeated Run
Under the steady leadership of head coach Maria Gray, now in her 12th season, the Chesapeake Cougars are putting together one of their most confident and cohesive campaigns in recent memory. The Cougars are stacked with experience, led by a senior-heavy roster that has been playing together since youth basketball days. That chemistry is showing on the court.
Chesapeake closed out 2025 with a convincing 57–41 win over Walkersville, powered by a big night from Kiery Matkins, who poured in 23 points, and Ella Cieri, who added 16 points while continuing her strong defensive stretch with multiple steals yet again. Kendall Kotofski chipped in across the stat sheet with rebounds, steals, and steady leadership.
With seniors Matkins, Cieri, Allison Schaefer, Emily Brandts, Carlie Shoemaker, Emily Clewley, and others leading the way – and juniors like Kotofski, Ally Zichos, and Maya Stankard providing depth – the Cougars are blending toughness, speed, and basketball IQ. Coach Gray says the talent is there for something special, but her focus remains on effort, teamwork, and enjoying the journey together.
Chesapeake entered the week undefeated and will look to keep that momentum going on the road against Severn Run, a team they handled decisively last season. The change in venue could add a challenge, but this Cougar squad appears ready for whatever comes next.
Northeast Eagles: Confidence Building One Game at a Time
At Northeast, head coach Michael Parker is in his ninth season and guiding a team that’s starting to turn heads. His motto for the year – #DoWeWannaBeGoodOrGreat – has become more than a slogan as the Eagles show steady improvement and resilience.
Northeast recently picked up its third straight win, edging Annapolis Area Christian 43–38 in a gritty matchup. Senior guard Brynn Jones was once again the engine, finishing just shy of a double-double with nine points and a career-high nine assists. Madison Burris made her presence felt inside with rebounds and steals, while the Eagles dominated the glass with 20 offensive rebounds, a trend that has become a trademark of this group.
With seniors Jones, Maiah Parker, Starr Munford, and Burris, along with junior Amari Folks, talented sophomores Nadia Sogbo and London Jeffers, and newcomer Makaila Jones, the Eagles are deep, physical, and growing more confident each week.
Coach Parker emphasizes staying humble and taking things one game at a time, but it’s clear this Northeast squad is laying the foundation to be recognized as a competitive county team. They’ll return to action against Southern on January 6, looking to keep their momentum rolling.
A Great Season for Pasadena Hoops
Whether it’s Chesapeake’s veteran leadership and unbeaten start or Northeast’s steady climb and renewed confidence, girls basketball in Pasadena is thriving. Both teams reflect the heart of the community – hard-working, determined, and proud to represent their schools. As the season continues, local fans can expect more exciting nights in the gym and plenty of Cougar and Eagle pride on display.
