The Strom Thurmond Rebels won the last time they faced the Batesburg-Leesville Panthers, and things went their way on Friday too. Strom Thurmond came out on top against the Panthers by a score of 49-40. Given Strom Thurmond's advantage in MaxPreps' South Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked 102nd, while the Panthers are ranked 224th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
Strom Thurmond's win was the result of several impressive offensive performances. One of the most notable came from Jordyn Lee, who scored 18 points along with two steals. The team also got some help courtesy of A.J. Walker, who dropped a double-double on 11 points and ten rebounds.
Despite the defeat, Batesburg-Leesville saw an underclassman step up: Ta'Maj Gilliam scored 14 points. Jamerius Clark was another key contributor, scoring nine points.
Strom Thurmond is on a roll lately: they've won six of their last seven matchups, which provided a nice bump to their 17-6 record this season. As for Batesburg-Leesville, they are on a three-game losing streak that has dropped them down to 8-9.
Both squads are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Strom Thurmond will play host again and welcome the Panthers, where tip off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Pelion is no doubt hoping to put an end to a four-game streak of away losses. As for Batesburg-Leesville, they will be playing in front of their home fans against the Bulldogs at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday.
