The Panthers faced cross-town rival Whitewater in the Region 4-AAAAA championship game and finished runner up, losing 50-32, also making them the number two seed in the state basketball tournament.

The Panthers played the Wildcats two times in the regular season and won.
“It’s really hard to beat a team three times,” said coach Brandon Hutchins of the Feb. 15 game.

The Panthers hosted the first round of the state tournament against Thomas County Central on Wednesday, Feb. 20. The boys ended up with a 10-point win over the Yellow Jackets, 66-56. Juniors David Watson scored 22 points and Jeremiah Vrudny scored 20.

“We made school history that night,” varsity coach Brandon Hutchins said.  The victory marked the first time the Panthers made it past the first round at state.

When facing Effingham County on their home court in the second round, the Panthers couldn’t quite pull through and lost by 22 with a final score of 61-39.  Senior Ryan Nace lead the team in scoring with 11 points. 

“Although we lost, this season was the most exciting sports season I have ever played,” Nace said. “We really worked together as a team and made this season unforgettable.”

The Panthers finished with an 18-11 record and set a school record for most wins in a single season.

“We accomplished all of our goals that we set as a team,” Hutchins said. “I am truly proud of my boys.”