MONTICELLO– The Goshen Gladiators paid a visit to “The Pit” gymnasium in Monticello, to take on the Monticello Panthers in a league boys basketball matchup. The scene was set with a good crowd and energy for the evening. The game got started in the first quarter with a slow tempo as both teams were feeling each other out. The Panthers would grab an 8-7 early lead. Goshen would quickly take the lead from the Panthers and force Monticello to call a timeout. The Gladiators held a slight lead heading into the second quarter.

The game would continue to be a close contest with Goshen holding only a two point advantage  at halftime. The start of the third quarter would see the quality of basketball improve  with an increase in shots taken and scoring on both ends of the court.  In the second half the coaches rode primarily with their starters. A contrast to the many substitutions in the first half of the game. 

In the final quarter the Panthers mount a comeback bringing the score within two points. Rebounding was key in helping the Panther’s get back into the game. The score was tied twice in the quarter before the Panthers grabbed a slight lead, their first of the game. 

The Gladiators would get the final edge over the Panthers in the final moments of the game to seal the win 63-59.

Top performers of the game included Gladiators Kyle Luong with 30 points, and Sean Kelly, with 15 points to help lead Goshen to victory. Panthers had key contributions from Quenten Liciaga, and Javien Willams who contributed 23 points points each.

The Panther’s are fourth in the league and will look to grab their first win against some upcoming challenging opponents.