Potomac Intermediate School Basketball

February 26, 2000 - The Potomac Intermediate School Basketball Team squeeked by Landon 37-36 in the Semi-Finals of The Bullis Tournament.

Tha talk around town was how Landon was prepared to beat Potomac this time around. They were focused and ready. The Panthers came out like they wanted to prove that no one could stay with them. Potomac went on an 8-0 run to start the game. The press was too much for Landon as the Panther players anticipated every pass and moved well to come up with steals and fast break points. Landon finally settled down and Potomac got a little over anxious. Potomac ended the quarter up 12-8. Who knew that Potomac's quick start would be the deciding factor in this game. Both teams played even in the second quarter, allowing Potomac to maintain their 4 point lead going into the half, 19-15.

In the third quarter, Landon outplayed Potomac to narrow the lead to just two points 28-26. Landon hit some long range shots in the quarter that seemed to frustrate the Panthers. The crowd got more into it as the game went on, as every possession became more and more important. In the fourth quarter, it was anyone's game to win or lose. It seemed that Landon wanted it most, based on their level of intensity, but Potomac had an undefeated season on the line and just wouldn't be denied a chance to defend their title in the Championship game. With less than a minute to go, Brent Locey was fouled and sank one of two freethrows to give Potomac a three point lead. Landon came down and scored to cut the lead to one with only seconds remaining. Landon pressed and Potomac turned the ball over, giving Landon another chance to win. After several attempts the ball was knocked out of bounds by Potomac with 3 seconds left, giving Landon one more chance at victory. Landon in bounded the ball and Potomac's Chris McNerney stripped the ball away from his man and quickly passed up court to seal the victory for the Panthers.

Michael Fischer led Potomac with 16 points followed by Marcus Ginyard (10) and Brent Locey (5).

Potomac's next game will be at Bullis against St Albans, Sunday at 5:30pm. This sets up a rematch of last year's Championship game which Potomac won. You won't want to miss it. Go Panthers!

Click the Box Score link above for detailed player statistics.