The Bonney Lake gym was alive with energy Tuesday night as the Panthers hosted the undefeated Puyallup Vikings in an SPSL 4A clash. The Panthers, second in the South Division with a 4-2 league record, faced a tough test against the Vikings, who sat atop the North Division at 5-0.
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From the opening tip, Puyallup asserted their dominance, showcasing the skill and depth that earned them the No. 8 ranking in Washington’s 4A standings by WIAA. Junior point guard Will Nasinec set the tone, scoring 12 of his 14 points in the first half. The Vikings' precision around the rim and defensive intensity helped them build an 18-8 lead after the first quarter.
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Bonney Lake found glimpses of momentum in the second quarter, with senior Jamian Lewis draining two three-pointers to keep the Panthers in contention. However, Puyallup’s depth and steady scoring helped them maintain a 32-22 lead heading into halftime.
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The Vikings expanded their lead in the third quarter, fueled by contributions from every position. Viking guard Drew Jones led all scorers with 17 points as Puyallup took full control, entering the fourth with a commanding 48-28 lead. Despite a late spark from Bonney Lake senior Cooper Hartley, who scored 7 of his team-high 13 points in the final period, the Panthers couldn't close the gap.
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Puyallup sealed the 62-43 win with their second unit finishing the game. The loss was a tough blow for Bonney Lake but highlighted areas for growth as the Panthers look to rebound in the second half of league play.
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Stat Leaders:
Cooper Hartley:Â 13 points
Jamian Lewis:Â 11 points
Eli Davis:Â 5 points, 8 rebounds
Isaiah Chavez:Â 5 points
Quinton Sagiao:Â 4 points
Cole Seminara:Â 2 points
Joshua Rollins:Â 2 points
Braiden Vance:Â 1 point
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The Panthers will look to regroup and build momentum as they travel to Rogers High School on Saturday, January 10, for a 7 p.m. tip-off. Their next home matchup is set for January 9 against Puyallup’s SPSL rival, the Puyallup Vikings.
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