The Paint Branch Boys’ Basketball Team won a physical and hard-fought game against the Einstein Titans, 68-60, on Friday, December 14. The Panthers exchanged baskets with the Titans throughout the first half; however, in the third quarter, Paint Branch started to pull away. The Panthers used a tenacious trap defense that led to many fast-break points. Coach Hardy explained that they “used the trap defense at the beginning and it worked, so we stayed with it.” This proved to be the decisive factor.

Junior point guard Stephen Griffin, and senior guard Shane Yambor, led the offensive charge, scoring 22 and 18 points, respectively. Griffin talked about his offensive performance by stating that Einstein “was playing off; they were playing zone, which allowed me to penetrate the gaps.” Senior guard Travis Hart knocked down some key three-pointers, and senior guard Jarred Hedley pushed the offensive tempo, which wore the Titans down. Junior center Cody Burns took care of the defensive end by grabbing multiple rebounds.

Paint Branch started the third quarter on a lay-up and never looked back. The Panthers used their speed to frustrate the Einstein players, which led to many turnovers and easy points on the other end for Paint Branch. The constant up and down pace of the Panthers wore the Einstein Titans down late in the game, which allowed Griffin and Burns the opportunity to seal the game with some important free throws.

Throughout the game, the Panthers utilized their inside-outside game and their driving-to-the- basket abilities, which allowed them to excel on the offensive end. With this important divisional victory, the Panthers now have an overall record of 3-1 and they are undefeated in divisional play.