Basketball Recap: Nico Martelli's Big Game Can't Quite Lead Perry over Canton Central Catholic

Perry lost against Canton Central Catholic back in December of 2024 and unfortunately they wound up with the same result on Tuesday. The Panthers fell 44-34 to the Crusaders.

Perry's loss came despite a true team effort with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Nico Martelli, who shot 56% from the field on his way to 10 points. Another player making a difference was Nasir Foster, who posted 11 points.

Perry's defeat ended a three-game streak of wins at home dating back to last season and dropped them to 1-2. As for Canton Central Catholic, the win made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 2-2.

Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Perry and McKinley will compete for holiday cheer at 6:45 p.m. on Friday. The Panthers will be up against the Bulldogs' rather soft defense (which has allowed 67.25 points per contest), so fans could be in store for a big offensive performance. Canton Central Catholic will take on Harding in a holiday battle at 7:00 p.m. on Friday.