The Panthers (10-4, 2-0) are starting to sizzle at the right time, entering a busy month.
The depth has improved, and coach Jon Rush has been thrilled to watch the Panthers make strides in recent weeks.
Having won four in a row and seven of their past eight, the Panthers have several Skyway showdowns in their immediate future.
The squad has five in double-figure averages (Taaj Davis is out for the season), and Evan Bush has given them an added punch on both ends of the court.
Bush is averaging 11.3 points and 8.3 rebounds per game, but the production and efficiency have made a positive difference.
While many teams would prefer to outscore their opponents, the Panthers' defensive effort has been outstanding.
They have limited opposing offenses to 39.1% shooting, ranking 19th in the NJCAA DII ranks. They have shut the water off for opposing three-point shooters as well. They have limited the opposition to 28.8%, which is No. 21 nationally, and those are more than enough production to stay afloat in the Skyway standings.
Currently 2-0, the Panthers are in a four-way tie with Lake County, Moraine Valley, and Prairie State.
The other four in the Skyway are winless in conference play, but something will have to give on Tuesday night. The Pioneers and Panthers have expectations to challenge for a conference crown.
Prairie State comes in on a four-game winning streak with wins in five of their past six matchups. A close and thrilling finish could be in store for the Henry J. Vais Gymnasium on Tuesday night.
The pair of conference victories for the Pioneers have been one-possession games. After their one-point win against McHenry last Tuesday, they saw a two-point win over Elgin just two days later.
The Panthers came off a Thursday home victory over McHenry by seven points in a game where the pace was rapid. Both offenses left the matchup with success and confidence.
Lonnel Strickland has been fabulous at getting to the paint and making an impact for others to get involved. Attacking the rim will create extra defenders and allow the Panther shooters to get open looks.
The ability to take care of the basketball and value possessions has allowed the squad to have several double-digit scorers on any given night. Not relying on one specific scorer has made life easier for Rush and the Panthers.
Grabbing a win on Tuesday night would give them a 3-0 Skyway start before a road matchup with Lake County on Thursday.
Catching fire in January and playing winning basketball has been a joy for Panther nation. If you miss any future home games in person, follow the team on our Facebook page and Youtube. Also, check out GoMCPanthers.com and our social media pages @McAthletics1924 for more upcoming featured recaps, previews, quotes, and all the latest news for Panther hoops.
