Basketball Recap: Nease Falls Short of Oakleaf in the Playoffs

Nease and Oakleaf squared off in some playoff action on Wednesday, but Nease had to settle for second. They took a 50-36 bruising from the Oakleaf Knights. While losing is never fun, the Panthers can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 224th, while the Knights are ranked 95th).

Despite the loss, Nease still got an impressive performance from Reid Foster, who posted eight points and six boards. What's more, Foster also racked up four assists, the most he's had since back in December of 2024. Another player making a difference was Chase Phifer, who went 5 of 10 on his way to 10 points and six rebounds.

Nease has been struggling recently as they've lost six of their last seven games, which put a noticeable dent in their 10-16 record this season. As for Oakleaf, the victory made it two in a row for them and bumps their season record up to 18-6.

Nease does not have any more games scheduled as of now. As for Oakleaf, they will take on Fletcher on Friday. Fletcher will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something Oakleaf surely won't give up without a fight.