The varsity girls basketball team broke Pinewood’s previous 66-game winning streak in the WBAL season on Saturday, Jan. 11. This game marked the Knights’ first victory against the Panthers since the 2011-2012 season, securing a 46-45 victory. 

Although the Knights trailed at halftime, posting 23 points to Pinewood’s 25, the game remained close and competitive throughout. Top scorers of the night included sophomore Sharon Nejad who tallied an impressive 18 points, and juniors Coco Layton and Avery Lee with eight and nine points respectively.

The end of the game came down to free throws by Layton. The score was tied 45-45 as Layton stepped up to the line. Despite the pressure, she sunk the first shot. “I just tried to clear my head so my nerves wouldn’t interfere with my shot,” Layton said. Layton’s one successful free throw gave the Knights a one-point lead with just under four seconds left. Within these four seconds, the Panthers attempted a three-pointer to outscore the Knights but released the ball just late enough for the shot to be discounted, leaving the Knights with a 46-45 victory.

“We played really great, especially defensively. […] I think that was the key to winning the game because no player’s three-point shot was particularly on that night, so we had to focus on limiting how much Pinewood scored,” Layton said. “Another key was the energy […]. Everyone was on the floor winning the 50/50 balls, and I think that made a huge difference in securing our victory.”

With this major win under their belt, the Knights are eager to continue their momentum in games to come. They face rival SHP on Friday, Jan. 17 at Prep.