Cary, Panther Creek split basketball doubleheader

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By Dave Malenick, Correspondent

Panther Creek (8-7 Tri-9) led wire-to-wire, enjoying a double-digit win for the first time in weeks after playing several tight games in a row. The victory put the Catamounts in good position to clinch a playoff spot next week.

Gaqwez Hudson led the Catamounts with 24 points, followed by Akeem Tate (21), Juan Munoz (17) and Josh Maciejewski (16).

“Lately every game we’ve been in, with the exception of Lee County, came down to the last possession,” said Panther Creek head coach L.J. Hepp. “I’m not surprised how many shots we made, because we are a good shooting team, but I loved the way we moved the basketball to get those shots. It’s a lot of fun to see the ball move and know the kids are working together.”

Panther Creek sank seven 3-point shots in the first period and finished with 10, as their unselfish play resulted in plenty of open looks.

Cary (4-10 Tri-9) trailed 37-33 at halftime and 58-50 after three, but were unable to overcome a lack of depth as the fresher Catamounts pulled away in the final period.

Senior Nick Ciampa and junior C.J. Lyon each led the Imps with 21 points apiece.

Panther Creek, Lee County and Holly Springs are battling for the remaining two Tri-9 playoff spots.