The Griffith Boys’ Basketball team opened their preseason against Kankakee Valley on Friday, Nov 22 at Griffith High School.

The last time these teams played in season was last year with Griffith winning over Kankakee 51-29. This time, it was the preseason, and the game was not counted towards either team’s record, but it was a great way of showing off each’s teams demanding work and moves that they have made this offseason. Griffith did graduate a few key players last year, but the team is up to the challenge in filling those shoes.

Last year, Griffith had a promising season, falling short to Bishop Noll in sectionals. Although their season ended short, Griffith finished 16-9, a much-needed season after years of losing seasons. Kankakee finished their season 14-10 after falling to crown point in their sectionals. Griffith scored an exceptional 55.5 points per game last season, while Kankakee put 60.5 points per game last season. With both teams coming off an impressive season there were many possible outcomes to this game.

Griffith and Kankakee played 5 segments in this game, with Griffith winning all 5 by at least 10 points or more. The Panthers did get off to a slow start, trailing late in the first segment to Kankakee, which was expected as the Panthers needed to find a rhythm with the new team. Once they got into the groove, the Panthers never looked back, rolling past the Kougars.

Two standout players in this game were Colton Strezo, along with Gianni Feaster. Strezo put up 19 points, 5 rebounds and 2 assists, with Feaster right behind him racking up 16 points, 3 rebounds and 6 assists.

This upcoming season is looking very bright for the Panthers, showing off that they will potentially be even better than last year – only time will tell for the Panthers.