It can be hard to translate regular season success to the playoffs, but the Manteno Panthers had no problem doing just that on Thursday. They had just enough and edged the Coalers out 30-27. The victory was all the more spectacular given Manteno's disadvantage in MaxPreps' Illinois basketball rankings (they are ranked 336th, while Coal City is ranked 153rd).
Manteno found their leader in underclassman Maddie Gesky, who scored seven points along with 18 rebounds and two blocks. Gesky is on a roll when it comes to rebounds, as she's now pulled down 11 or more in the last seven games she's played. The team also got some help courtesy of Annabella Gigliello, who scored four points along with seven rebounds.
Manteno pushed their record up to 18-12 with that victory, which was their seventh straight at home. As for Coal City, their defeat ended a nine-game streak of away wins and brought them to 22-4.
Manteno will take on Watseka at 6:00 p.m. on Tuesday. Watseka will roll in looking for their fourth straight win, something Manteno surely won't give up without a fight. Coal City does not have any more games scheduled as of now.
Article generated by infoSentience based on data entered on MaxPreps
