Central Catholic played host to the visiting Panthers of Pope John Paul II Wednesday night in the first round of the state playoffs. It was a rematch of last season’s contest where the Panthers ended the Vikings season.
Central Catholic played host to the visiting Panthers of Pope John Paul II Wednesday night in the first round of the boys basketball state playoffs. It was a rematch of last season’s contest where the Panthers ended the Vikings season.
In the first quarter, the Panthers got out to a 10-2 run and it looked as if they were off to the races. Central Catholic, however would battle back and cut the deficit to five after the first quarter. 16-11 PJP lead after the first eight minutes of play.
The second quarter was all about the defense as there were just a combined five points scored between the two teams. The teams were 2/18 combined from the field in the second, and the score was 19-13 PJP in front at halftime.
In the third quarter, the playoff atmosphere at Rockne Hall energized the players and both teams were getting into a rhythm. Liam Joyce’s efforts both inside the paint and on the glass helped spring Central back into this game. The score was 31-27 after the third Panthers lead, but the Vikings weren’t done yet.
In the fourth quarter, Central Catholic started to take over, led by point guard Tyson Thomas and shooting guard Griffin Patridge. Thomas was able to nail the three in the opening minutes of the quarter that brought Central their first lead 33-31. Patridge hit a three moments later and the score now was 39-36 Vikings in front. Central Catholic was able to put the Panthers away at the line, and the final score was 43 to 40. Liam Joyce led all scorers with 20 points. He also had a game sealing rebound off of a missed free-throw as time expired.
Central Catholic got their redemption against PJP and advanced to the state quarterfinals. They will take on Arch Bishop Carroll this upcoming Friday at 7 PM.
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