The Panthers remained atop the rankings on Monday afternoon after their 6-0 Skyway start. They have swept their pair of games thus far in January and have eight remaining games.

They have yet to allow 50 points in any conference matchup and have dominated the opposition. 

They have a margin of victory at 56.1 points per game, but that may not be their most impressive feat thus far.

Winning 47 games in a row against Illinois opponents is improbable for most. The Panthers have won 18 Skyway matchups in a row and are at 40 consecutive wins in the regular season.

The top-ranked squad has protected their home court by winning 36 consecutive at the Henry J. Vais Gymnasium. Throw in their 31 straight wins over Region IV squads, and the Panthers have plenty to play for in the final month of games before their Region IV Tournament. 

Last season was when the Panthers turned it up a notch. The Panthers haven't wasted any performances in the New Year. The season has been fun, but the work is far from over.

Heading to Elgin (2-4 in Skyway) is a game the Panthers will be putting in their best efforts as the newly ranked No. 1 team in the NJCAA DII ranks. 

They received all nine first-place votes in the Week 11 ranks and will look to continue their winning streaks. 

Several star individuals will look to continue fun times of their own. Mia Simpson still leads the NJCAA DII ranks in shooting percentage (72.5%) and is coming off last season, where she finished first (64.2%).

Claire Hyde leads in 3-pointers made (85) and has been on a torrid pace this season. She has made 56 3-pointers since December, which is crazy to ponder. The Panthers lead the nation in makes from distance per game (13.9) and in makes on the season (278).

Kaylen Evans (63) is fifth, and Jalyssa Carrasco (61) is sixth in makes from three-point territory on the season. The shooting trio and Mia Simpson give them a fantastic quartet that seemingly is unstoppable.

All four can catch fire and take over a game down the stretch, and the confidence for the top-ranked squad continues to rise as February arrives. Entering the week, the Panthers have four road games and four home dates remaining on the docket.

Unbeaten at 20-0, the Panthers should remain focused, knowing their goal is to take it one game at a time. 

Catching fire in January and as February arrives, 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.