Panthers Pull Away Late to Defeat Antwerp in GMC Clash

Paulding used a strong opening quarter and a dominant finish to pull away for a 71–49 boys basketball win over Antwerp on Friday night, January 9, in a Green Meadows Conference matchup at Paulding.

The Panthers jumped out quickly, scoring 23 points in the first quarter to take control early. Antwerp responded with its best stretch in the second quarter, pouring in 20 points behind steady outside shooting and aggressive drives, but Paulding still carried a 37–34 advantage into halftime.

After the break, the Panthers tightened up defensively, holding Antwerp to just six points in the third quarter while gradually extending the lead. Paulding then put the game out of reach in the fourth quarter, erupting for 23 points to close out the conference victory.

Xander Kuckuck led Paulding with 21 points, consistently attacking the basket and finishing through contact. Blake Rhonehouse added 16 points, while Gannon Parrett contributed 12 points from the free-throw line. Tyson Manz chipped in 11 points, giving Paulding four players in double figures as the Panthers improved to 8–3 overall and 2–0 in the GMC.

Antwerp was led by Zaine McMichael, who finished with 18 points, including five three-pointers. Brayden Fuller added eight points, and Weston Rhonehouse scored six for the Archers, who dropped to 2–9 overall and 0–2 in conference play.

In the junior varsity contest, Paulding defeated Antwerp 50–35.