JV win streak reaches six

     The Monticello junior varsity boys basketball team extended its winning streak to six games with recent wins over Anamosa, Tipton and Midland.

     On Dec. 11, the Panthers visited Anamosa to face their old rivals, the Blue Raiders. Anamosa raced out to a 7-0 lead but the Monticello JV kept chipping away and closed the gap to 20-17 at halftime. Riley Manternach’s big shot at the end of the third quarter gave Monticello a 31-30 lead. The Panthers built their lead to nine, but the Raiders closed the gap to three points. Late free throws were the difference as Monticello prevailed 45-41. Ty Kehoe led all scorers with 22 points.

     On Friday evening, Dec. 14, the Panthers hosted Tipton. The Tigers proved to be a tough, stubborn opponent. The Panthers went into the half with a slim one-point lead thanks to Manternach’s 14 point first half points. The Panthers put together a solid third quarter and extended their lead to 10 points before coasting to a 45-40 victory. Manternach led the Panthers with 18 points.

     The next afternoon, the JV faced a determined Midland Eagles team. The Eagles played outstanding basketball the entire game, giving the Panthers another difficult test. Monticello could never extend its lead beyond 11 points. Midland put on a great run at the start of the fourth quarter, but the Panther defense stiffened to preserve the win. Manternach was again the scoring leader with 23 points.

     The Panthers came out of the week 5-1 in River Valley Conference play and 6-1 overall.

 – Steve Rucker, head coach