For the Montezuma-Cortez High School girls basketball team, it was another tough weekend.
Even after two more blowout losses however, team members expressed satisfaction with their improvements and optimism regarding the future.
Panthers crushed by Central
Kicking off a two-game road trip against Grand Junction Central on Feb. 7, the Panthers struggled, losing 43-16 in a game defined by defense.
According to Panthers’ head coach John McHenry, the Panthers offensive struggles were due in large part to a week of defensive oriented practice.
Leading the way for the Panthers in the loss were sophomores Kiselya Plewe and Yannibah Bayles, who each tallied five points in the contest.
As a team, the Panthers converted only three field goals in the loss, while scoring ten free throws.
Panthers fall to Fruita Monument
Looking to regain their offensive form against Fruita Monument on Feb. 8, the Panthers lost for the second consecutive time, falling 39-21.
Again struggling on the offensive end, the Panthers were shut out during a first quarter that ended with Fruita Monument leading 15-0.
Although the Panthers battled back to score six points in the second frame, Fruita Monument’s offense scored nine points of its own to build a 24-6 halftime lead.
Leading the Panthers in scoring were Plewe (seven points) and junior Abri Conklin (six points).
“Both games, we played really good defense,” said McHenry, assessing his team’s weekend performances. “We continue to come together as a team.”
Next up for the 1-14 Panthers is a Feb. 11 road matchup against the Durango Demons, who beat the Panthers 66-39 earlier this season.