Panther boys lose nail-biter to Wildcats, but dominate Whitehall

by Derric Gray, student writer

The Gilmanton boys basketball team played two key Dairyland Conference games last week, turning in a split result.

On Tuesday, Jan. 19, the Panthers traveled to Blair-Taylor to take on the Wildcats, looking for their first win on the road. The Panthers started out in sync in the first half, generating an eight point lead at one point. The Wildcats would eventually rally back to take a 37-33 lead at the half.

The second half started in the Wildcats’ favor as they had maintained their lead. With minutes remaining the Panthers fought their way back into the game, but it was not enough resulting in a 76-72 Panthers loss. Tanner Hovey led the way with 24 points and eight rebounds, followed by Damontae Dewitt with 17 points and three steals. Nick Urness also contributed with 13 points, eight rebounds.

On Friday, Jan. 22, the boys hosted the Whitehall Norsemen. The Panthers came out hungry for a win, kicking off the game with a large lead, 25-1. The Panthers continued to dominate and came away with a 79-50 win.

Dewitt led the team with 23 points followed by Urness with 19 and Hovey with 15. Cameron Bauer led Gilmanton on the glass with eight rebounds.

The Panthers will travel to Cochrane-Fountain City on Thursday, Jan. 28, to continue Dairyland Conference play.

Gilmanton is currently 2-5 in the Small Dairyland with a 3-7 overall record.