By Anastasia Stepankowsky

Chief Sealth (2-9) has not won many close games this season, but the underdog Seahawks squeaked out a 54-51 victory over visiting Roosevelt (6-7) Friday night.

“I think they played just that little extra bit harder tonight and got some loose balls and some rebounds that we haven’t been getting in some games,” Chief Sealth head coach Colin Slingsby said.

Roosevelt burst to an early 12-6 lead. But the Seahawks closed the gap to 14-12 by the end of the first eight minutes.

The game remained closely contested, and several controversial calls angered both sides. In response to one call, Roughriders head coach Bart Brandenburg slammed his hands on the seat of his chair.

“The first half was a little lopsided. I was a little concerned at halftime. But I think the second half kind of evened out a little bit there. There was still a lot going both ways. But that’s the nature of the Metro Conference. It’s physical basketball,” Slingsby said.

Chief Sealth grabbed its first lead with 1:26 left in the fourth quarter, only to lose it to a Roosevelt three pointer. But in the last 30 seconds the Seahawks sealed their victory with a combination of free throws and a fast break to the net.

“[I’m] pleased we pulled out a win. It’s tough to lose close ones when you’re right there. So tonight getting that one felt good,” Slingsby said.

Senior forward Ahmed Mohamed led Chief Sealth in scoring. The Seahawks are at O’Dea next Tuesday at 7:30 p.m.