On Monday night, February 23, the Pana Panthers delivered a statement performance on their home floor, defeating the Paris Tigers 66-49 in the opening round of the 2026 Regional Tournament at Pana High School.
Fast Start Sets the Tone
Pana wasted no time asserting control. After winning the opening tip, the Panthers stormed out to a quick 6-0 run, setting the pace with relentless hustle and aggressive defense. Their energy was evident on both ends of the court, as crisp ball movement and sharp execution helped them build an early cushion.
Paris managed to find the scoreboard midway through the first quarter, but the Tigers struggled to contain Pana’s tempo. By the end of the opening frame, the Panthers had built a commanding 20-8 lead.
Tigers Rally Before the Break
The second quarter, however, told a different story.
Pana’s defensive intensity dipped, and Paris capitalized. The Tigers found their rhythm offensively, piecing together a strong run that quickly erased much of the deficit. With momentum shifting, the game tightened considerably.
Despite the surge, Pana managed to knock down just enough timely shots to maintain a slim advantage heading into halftime. The Panthers clung to a narrow 27-25 lead at the break, setting up a tense second half.
Panthers Respond in the Second Half
Both teams emerged from the locker room with postseason urgency, knowing their season was on the line.
The third quarter featured heightened intensity and physical play, as each possession carried added weight. Pana rediscovered its defensive edge, applying consistent pressure and disrupting Paris with active hands. The Panthers generated multiple steals and forced turnovers, converting them into valuable transition points.
Offensively, Pana looked more composed, handling the Tigers’ defensive pressure with improved ball control and smarter shot selection. By the end of the third quarter, the Panthers had regained momentum and extended their lead to 43-35.
Closing It Out
In the fourth quarter, Pana maintained control.
Though the game featured several heated and physical moments, the Panthers never allowed Paris to mount another serious comeback. Strong defensive stands and steady scoring down the stretch helped Pana steadily widen the gap.
When the final buzzer sounded, the Panthers secured a convincing 66-49 victory, punching their ticket to the next round.
What’s Next
With the win, Pana advances to the second round of the Regional Tournament. The Panthers will face the Warrensburg Cardinals on Wednesday, February 25 at 6 p.m. The game will be held at St. Joseph-Ogden High School.
If Monday night was any indication, the Panthers are hitting their stride at the right time—and they’re not done yet.
Post-Regional Game Interview with Coach Metzger
Post-Regional Game interview with Cash Lynch and Madyx Angel
Easton Malisia and Madyx Angel with an Alley Oop for Pana
Madyx Angel Hits a Corner Three
Cash Lynch with the Asist to Easton Malisia