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Panthers search for identity

 
Published Dec. 7, 2006|Updated Dec. 7, 2006

Lecanto still is trying to jell after graduating its entire starting rotation and much of the bench.

"We're still in the fact-finding phase," coach Ron Allan said. "We're still trying to see how we fit together, with people in different roles."

Sophomore point guard Kaylah Hall starts, but splits time with Kyla Brooks.

"Kaylah gives us a little bit more of a knowledge of what we are trying to do; Kyla gives us a spark," Allan said. "Kaylah likes to distribute the ball; Kyla is a slasher and she will take the ball to the basket and create offense."

Senior guard Sasha Rodriguez, who missed three games with an ankle injury after twisting it during the first preseason game, is starting to make her way back, while senior Angie Acton's consistency is helping the Panthers (3-4, 2-2 Class 4A-6), who are undersized, especially at the post with senior forwards Christie Huxley and Shannon Wiemann.

SHOT SELECTION? WHAT SHOT SELECTION: Both Citrus and Crystal River struggled to find the basket Tuesday night in the 'Canes' 28-23 victory.

It was Citrus' first win over Crystal River in at least four years, but both coaches - Crystal River's Jere DeFoor and Citrus' Eli Jackson - know they will have to improve their shot selection.

After the Pirates' loss, DeFoor only pointed to Crystal River shooting 1-for-18 in the fourth quarter.

CONFIDENCE BOOST: Seven Rivers Christian has gotten a confidence boost of late with wins over Bronson (62-30) and Bishop McLaughlin (38-30).

"We're playing well," coach Scott Swander said. "I think they are getting more confidence with shooting and they think they can win."

Sophomore forward Madison "Maddie" Burich led the Warriors with 16 points and 11 rebounds, followed by Rachael Capra's 16 points; she also scored 26 points against Bronson.

Swander has his own reasons for why the Warriors are winning well.

"I think most of the teams are down this year and we're about the same as we've always been," Swander said. "I don't think most of the girls are dedicated to basketball. They are more interested in volleyball because it's less work. It's less running and you don't have to be quite in the same shape."