The Batesburg-Leesville Panthers's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Friday after their third straight defeat. They fell 49-40 to Strom Thurmond. While losing is never fun, Batesburg-Leesville can't take it too hard given the team's big disadvantage in MaxPreps' South Carolina basketball rankings (they are ranked 224th, while the Rebels are ranked 102nd).
Despite the loss, Batesburg-Leesville saw an underclassman step up: Ta'Maj Gilliam scored 14 points. The team also got some help courtesy of Jamerius Clark, who scored nine points.
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. Another player making a difference was A.J. Walker, who dropped a double-double on 11 points and ten rebounds.
Batesburg-Leesville has traveled a rocky road recently having lost five of their last six contests, which put a noticeable dent in their 8-9 record this season. As for Strom Thurmond, they are on a roll lately: they've won six of their last seven games, which provided a nice bump to their 17-6 record this season.
Both teams are looking forward to the support of their home crowds in their upcoming games. Batesburg-Leesville will take on the Bulldogs at 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday. Silver Bluff is no doubt hoping to put an end to a three-game streak of away losses. As for Strom Thurmond, they will play host again and welcome the Panthers, where tip off is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. on Friday. Pelion is coming into the contest on a four-game losing streak.
