Chaska has appeared in the Boys State Tournament seven times in its history, winning the championship in 2004. Seeded fifth this year, the Hawks faced fourth-seeded Lakeville South on Tuesday, March 24, at Target Center in the opening round.

Chaska came out focused, jumping to a 17–3 lead against a Lakeville South team that had defeated them 68–61 during the regular season. Lakeville responded, but Chaska maintained its composure and pace, taking a 32–26 lead into halftime.

The second half showcased Chaska’s teamwork and strong fundamentals, allowing the Hawks to control the game and secure a 71–53 victory.

Sophomore Chase Maetzold led the team with 19 points and 10 rebounds. Junior Tyler Forrest added 15 points and four rebounds. As a team, Chaska shot 48% from the field, 42% from three-point range, and 72% from the free-throw line.

Chaska (26–4) advanced to face Section 4A champion Tartan (33–0) on Thursday, March 26, looking to extend its 23-game winning streak. Playing at Williams Arena at the University of Minnesota for the first time in school history, the Hawks took on the top seed in Class 4A.

A large arena, energetic crowd and high-stakes matchup can be intimidating — especially without prior practice time on the court. Chaska’s fans showed up in force, filling the south sideline of the lower bowl — many in beach-themed attire — and provided enthusiastic support throughout the game.

Tartan opened with intensity, building a 14–3 lead with 10:53 remaining in the first half. Head coach Nick Hayes called a timeout, and the adjustment proved effective. Chaska settled in, reduced early mistakes, tightened its defense, and began to shift momentum as Tartan’s shooting cooled.

By the 4:49 mark of the first half, Chaska had cut the deficit to 20–17, holding Tartan to just three baskets over a six-minute stretch. The Hawks combined strong defense with improved rebounding, gaining an edge in possession. In a competitive, low-foul half, Chaska took a 27–25 lead into the break.

The second half remained tightly contested, with both teams emphasizing defense. Offensive miscues — including turnovers and missed opportunities — affected both sides. Chaska’s persistence on the boards paid off, as the Hawks fought for second and third chances.

With 4:49 remaining, Tartan tied the game at 51–51. Chaska responded with timely shooting, including two key three-pointers from freshman Jed Keenan. The Hawks would go on a nine point run in that remaining time and Tartan would be held scoreless. A powerful dunk as time ran out by Tyler Forrest sealed the 60–51 victory and handed Tartan its first loss of the season.

Junior Kalin Jochum and Keenan led the Hawks with 17 points each, while senior Evan Atkinson added 11. Tyler Forrest contributed eight assists, many coming from strong drives that drew defenders and created open opportunities for teammates.

Rebounding proved decisive. Chaska recorded 35 total rebounds — eight offensive and 27 defensive — giving the Hawks consistent control of the ball. Senior Matthew Welter led the effort with 10 rebounds (six offensive, four defensive). As a team, Chaska shot 32% from the field, 37% from three-point range, and an impressive 84% from the free-throw line.

“They were one of the toughest teams we’ve played all year. I’m incredibly proud of how our team didn’t blink,” said Coach Hayes. “We didn’t see this as an upset. We believed in ourselves and stayed focused.”

“Our fans were amazing — just incredible support,” added Tyler Forrest. “That energy kept us going, and we stayed composed.”

Keenan emphasized team trust: “Our depth really showed tonight. We had contributions all over the floor, and my teammates trusted me to take those shots.”

“We knew they had a strong defense,” Jochum said. “We prepared for it, made adjustments, and relied on our chemistry.”

Chaska will play for the Class 4A state championship at 8 p.m. Saturday (March 28)  at Williams Arena against seventh-seeded Apple Valley, which defeated Maple Grove 73–63.

“We’ll watch film, learn and get one more good practice in,” Hayes said. “We’ll stick to what we do. The level of basketball in Minnesota is deep — anyone can beat anyone. We plan to do that on Saturday.”