The Pana Panthers knew they were in for a tough test Tuesday night.
Warrensburg-Latham entered the matchup riding high after a big win over Maroa-Forsyth, but the Panthers once again showed why they have been nearly impossible to stop.
Pana, now 24-0 on the season, took care of business in straight sets, defeating the Cardinals 25-22, 25-22 to remain perfect on the year.
The Panthers were tested throughout both sets, but when it mattered most, Pana continued to make the plays necessary to close things out. With every win, this Pana team continues to make history.
Following the victory, ILSportsWire’s Marlie Deerwester caught up with Phoenix Pope, who talked about what it means to be part of a Pana team that has reached a historic 23-0 start.
“This is the first time in Pana history that we’ve gone this far undefeated, and that’s a really great feeling for the team.”
Pope also delivered a strong performance at the net, swinging with confidence and helping the Panthers secure another victory. After going through a difficult stretch personally, she credited her teammates for helping her regain her confidence.
“I’ve had an off few weeks, I’ve been kind of down, and my team really helped uplift me. I think this game I made the comeback that I really needed to get back into the game like I need to.”
Pope also spoke highly of her coach and the constant support he provides the Panthers, both during the good moments and when things don’t go according to plan.
She described a coach who doesn’t simply wait until after the game to make corrections, but instead works with his players throughout the match to help them improve in real time.
That support has clearly helped fuel a Panthers team that continues to find ways to win.
24-0.
Pana keeps rolling.
And at this point, the question isn’t whether the Panthers can win.
It’s who can stop them?
