Panthers attack girls' basketball

One minute into the girls' basketball game, a Paint Branch High School player stepped back and drained a three pointer, giving the defending State Champs a 3-0 edge over Blair (6-9). That lead was never relinquished, as Paint Branch stomped over the Blazers, 52-27.

By the end of the first half, Blair's fate was sealed. Holding a 28-2 advantage, the Blazers' only points came on a pair of free throws by senior Latasha Peace, who led the team with eight points.

In the second half, with Paint Branch resting many of its starters, Blair managed to make the score more respectable. In fact, they outscored Paint Branch in the both the third and fourth quarters, but only by one point.

Though both Peace and junior Lara Dean showed their range by hitting three pointers, they were no match for the Panthers outside touch, as Paint Branch knocked down three of their own.

Shooting was not a problem for the Blazers tonight, however. It was getting shot opportunities that the team struggled with. Paint Branch's full-court press stifled Blair, forcing them to commit turnover after turnover, en route to the first half blowout.

Once Paint Branch's press eased up in the second half, Blair was able to work the ball inside to sophomores Caroline Kuttner and Emily Ramsay, who had four and eight points, respectively. Senior Erin Ivey, Blair's most threatening defensive presence in the paint, did not play.