The Plant Panthers won the last time they faced the Boca Ciega Pirates, and things went their way on Friday too. Plant strolled past Boca Ciega with points to spare, taking the game 63-47. Given Plant's advantage in MaxPreps' Florida basketball rankings (they are ranked 158th, while Boca Ciega is ranked 365th), the result wasn't entirely unexpected.
Plant found their leader in underclassman Jazlyn Bowman, who scored 30 points along with five steals. As a matter of fact, that's the most points Bowman has scored all season. Hanna Crouse was another key contributor, scoring 11 points along with six assists and six steals.
Boca Ciega's loss came despite a true team effort from the offense, with many players turning in solid performances. Perhaps the best among them was Jacquavia Ferguson, who scored 17 points. The team also got some help courtesy of JaLainah Hunt, who scored 11 points.
Plant's victory bumped their record up to 9-6. As for Boca Ciega, they now have a losing record at 5-6.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Plant on the road again on Saturday and play against Lakewood at 2:00 p.m. on January 13th. Lakewood has been getting the ball to fall more lately as they've increased their point totals each of their last three games. Boca Ciega won't have much time to rest: their next match is against Flagler Palm Coast at 11:00 a.m. on January 13th. Flagler Palm Coast will be looking to keep their three-game home win streak alive.
