Basketball Recap: Marianna Takes Loss Despite Strong Performances from Ja'shonna Mathis and Dessiah Gee

Marianna lost against Graceville back in December of 2024 and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Monday. The Marianna Bulldogs took a 39-28 hit to the loss column at the hands of the Graceville Tigers. While losing is never fun, the Bulldogs can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 324th, while the Tigers are ranked 147th).

Marianna's loss shouldn't obscure the performances of Dessiah Gee, who posted 13 points and six rebounds, and Ja'Shonna Mathis, who scored nine points and five steals. Marianna is 5-1 when Mathis posts five or more steals, but 2-11 otherwise.

It was another big night for Zaria Nedd, who dropped a double-double on 11 points and 17 boards for Graceville. Those 17 rebounds gave Nedd a new career-high. Aarshunni Curry was another key player, almost dropping a double-double on nine points and nine boards.

Marianna has traveled a rocky road recently having lost six of their last seven contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 7-12 record this season. As for Graceville, their victory bumped their record up to 16-3.

Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Marianna won't have much time to rest: their next game is against Rutherford at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Rutherford will roll in looking for their 16th straight win, something Marianna surely won't give up without a fight. As for Graceville, they will welcome Sneads at 4:00 p.m. on Thursday.