The Knoxville Boys Basketball Squad’s rematch with Grinnell was the exact opposite of the first matchup between the two teams. Back in December, the Panthers posted a 70-57 win over the Tigers and last night Grinnell got revenge with a 77-54 win heard live on 95.3 KNIA. The teams traded blows in the first quarter with Grinnell taking a 16-14 advantage and stretched it to nine at halftime on the strength of post-play and guard Jake Hull. The Tigers then delivered the knockout punch in the third quarter, outscoring the Panthers 26-6 to take a commanding lead. Knoxville would get to within 16 in the fourth, but no closer. Panthers Coach Jeff Larson told KRLS Sports Grinnell’s posts and outside shooting was too much to overcome.

Larson:
“Our kids fought and the big guys inside gave us problems. They got a lot better since they last played them. Their kids made shots and that’s what a high school kid is supposed to do when he’s wide open and they did.”

Kieren Nichols scored 25 points to lead the Panthers while Ben Olson tallied 11 points. Knoxville finishes the season with a 12-10 record.