Basketball Game Preview: Hershey Panthers vs. Mullen Broncos

The Hershey Panthers just played yesterday, but they'll still head out to face the Mullen Broncos at 6:30 p.m. on Friday. Both squads will be entering this one on the heels of a big victory.

On Thursday, Hershey was fully in charge, breezing past St. Patrick's 51-5. The final result isn't all that surprising considering the Panthers' considerable advantage in MaxPreps' Nebraska basketball rankings (they are ranked 100th, while the Irish are ranked 231st).

Meanwhile, Mullen entered their tilt with Sandhills/Thedford on Tuesday with eight consecutive wins but they'll enter their next game with nine. They were the clear victors by a 53-32 margin over the Knights. For those keeping track at home, that's the biggest victory the Broncos have posted against the Knights since February 4, 2021.

Mullen found their leader in sophomore Jenna Donohoe, who shot 54% from the field en route to 18 points in addition to eight boards and six steals. Donohoe continues to improve, besting her previous point total in each of the last three games she's played. Kalli Licking was another key player, putting up 12 points.

Mullen was working as a unit and finished the game with 12 assists. They are 14-1 when they've passed the ball that well.

Hershey's record now sits at 13-10. As for Mullen, their record is now 15-4.

Everything came up roses for Hershey against Mullen in their previous meeting back in January of 2023, as the squad secured a 68-28 win. Will the Panthers repeat their success, or do the Broncos have a new game plan this time around? We'll find out soon enough.