Panther basketball played against Mundy’s Mill for the second time in less than a week. Tuesday night, Starr’s Mill defeated the Tigers again, this time 76-55.
Sophomore Tyler Griffin displayed a mastery of ball control throughout the game and finished the game with 19 points.
“It’s all about looking for shots and working as a team,” Griffin said.
Senior Scott Stevens led all scorers with 24 points.
From the opening tipoff, the Panthers had momentum on the court, scoring four quick points. The Tigers struggled to make baskets, but kept the game close by out-rebounding Starr’s Mill. Starr’s Mill led 20-14 after the first quarter.
“We just need to come out with a little bit more focus,” Stevens said. “They were going to be better than the last time they played us, so we have to be better than that.”
Griffin helped the Panthers control the second quarter. He scored 7 of the team’s 20 points, snagged several rebounds, and hounded the Tiger offense. Starr’s Mill led 40-32 at halftime.
Coming out of the locker room, the Panthers continued their momentum. Defensive play from Mundy’s Mill Junior Christopher Johnson was the biggest threat to the Panther lead. Despite this, the Panthers continued the fight and came out the quarter with a 60-44 score.
The final quarter fully solidified the quality of the Panthers’ skills. Momentum continued as did the level of play. Several younger players saw time on the court. The Panthers defended the Panther Pit, winning 76-55.
“Honestly, we have been giving everyone different looks,” head coach Josh Reeves said. “Now that everyone has seen us twice, we have to be deeper in our bag.”
Starr’s Mill won again last night, defeating McIntosh, 54-40. The Panthers play their final game of the regular season on February 7. They host Northside on Senior Night.