The top-ranked Panthers surged past Elgin on Tuesday night, 93-48. They had five in double figures and led by as many as 50 points with 7:12 remaining in regulation.

They built their lead thanks to a career-high 28 points from Mia Simpson on 14-for-16 shooting. She added 15 rebounds and nine steals in the victory and was an unstoppable force in the paint.

"I believe communication is key on both ends of the floor. We try our best to always talk on the court. It helps make everyone on the same page," Simpson said.

Simpson has been dazzling for the past two seasons and has taken her game to an even more impressive state. Most teams lack elite athleticism for players to dissect defenses, and the Panthers have a bevy of them.

Simpson has tremendous touch near the rim, where she can grab a rebound or pass and finish. So many players can struggle near the basket, but Simpson and her awareness are off the charts.

While leading 43-19 at the half, many stars took control of the game. The ability to share the basketball and force the issue was apparent. 

They forced 34 turnovers for the game, many of which were in the first half when the Panthers pressured the Spartans in the backcourt.

Claire Hyde and Jalyssa Carrasco each had 15 points and continued their sharpshooting ways from distance. Hyde hit three more from deep, and Carrasco ended up with five 3-pointers to keep her among the national leaders. Hyde had another productive outing after being named the NJCAA DII National Player of the Week.

Kaylen Evans made a trio of 3-pointers and posted 12 points in the victory. Her ability to find teammates continues to set the tempo during games.

All great teams also have solid depth, and the bench stepped up thanks to 13 points from Gianine Boado. The experienced performer made 6-of-10 shots in 19-plus minutes of action.

The team came in averaging 13.1 3-pointers per game, which led the NJCAA DII ranks. They made a dozen on the night in a game that was never in doubt. They have held the opposition under 50 points in every conference game this season.

The Panthers are now 7-0 in Skyway play and atop the conference. They are going up against some tougher competition on Thursday night when they host Oakton. The doubleheader (women at 5:15, men to follow) will be live on Facebook (http://bit.ly/3UwtfcW) & Youtube (http://bit.ly/3VYQDB2) with a pair of legends on the call in Kenny McReynolds and Mark Krueger!

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.