On Tuesday, Jan. 7, the Hershey Panthers hosted the South Loup Bobcats in a high-paced matchup. The Bobcats entered the game with a record of 5-2, while the Panthers were looking for their first win of the season.

The Bobcats came out strong in the first quarter, showcasing solid defense and a fast-paced offense. The Bobcats scored the first points of the game with a layup.

The Panthers fought to break through the Bobcats' defense and put points on the board, but the Bobcats held their ground, led by junior Crew Witthuhn, who dominated with 3 rebounds in the first quarter.

The first quarter concluded with the Bobcats leading 11-7, thanks in part to Dylan Pandorf who put up 4 points in the quarter.

The Panthers started the second quarter with a strong push against the Bobcats' defense, managing to score and build some momentum. The second quarter ended with the Bobcats leading 24-20, with Witthuhn scoring 10 points in the period.

The Bobcats entered the third quarter determined to secure a win and improve their record. A key moment of the third quarter came when Witthuhn stole the ball from the Panthers and scored a quick 2 points, extending the Bobcats' lead.

The third quarter ended with the score at 32-31, with the Panthers closing the gap, but the Bobcats still holding onto the lead.

The fourth quarter flew by as both teams battled fiercely for the win. The Bobcats finished strong, adding 16 points in the final quarter. The game concluded with a 48-40 victory for the Bobcats.

“We played well and put in a strong effort, which allowed us to come away with the win,” Witthuhn said.

Paulsen was the leading scorer for the Bobcats with 15, while Witthuhn added

12. Ethan Furne grabbed 9 rebounds, Witthuhn 15, and Paulsen 6 to mount a strong defensive attack.