Paul VI Shows Ring Rust at Gieco Nationals

Tink Butler April 19, 2021 @ 10:10 AM

Paul VI Shows Ring Rust at Gieco Nationals The Gieco Nationals has been the event used to crown a high school national champion for several years. They regularly host a DMV team, sometimes however, not the top team participates as rules get a little murky near selection time. Paul VI finished #1 in the region going undefeated in the most strangest season in history. The Panthers entered the tournament 10-0 and faced anyone that they could play in the process and certainly didn’t "duck the bump" as the locals would say. The Panthers, however, hadn’t played a game in almost two months because of Covid-19 restrictictions. Now, facing top seeded Westlake out of Georgia, a team they have faced and defeated last season at the Art Turner Memorial Classic, the Panthers would have their toughest task of the season. Both teams are multiple state champions in their respective states, Georgia, however, had far less restrictions than Virginia and Westlake would enter the tournament playing 20 games finishing a perfect 20-0. The Panthers trailed 20-18 after the first quarter and shot the ball really well going 8 for 10 from the field. In the second quarter the Lions stepped up the defensive pressure and Paul VI only managed to hit two shots and trailed 37-22 at the half. The lead balloned to 20 plus points and PVI had no answer to Ta’Niya Latson who scored a game high 31 points. In the end Paul VI falled to Westlake 70-50. Standout Players: [player_tooltip player_id="143229" first="Jaelyn" last="Talley"] - Jaelyn scored 17 points and added six rebounds and was to finish in the paint. She continued a solid effort even when facing a huge deficit. [player_tooltip player_id="21939" first="Bella" last="Perkins"] - Bella shot the ball well from deep and the mid range finishing with 14 points. She capped off a great season and career in the losing effort. [player_tooltip player_id="21932" first="Lee" last="Volker"] - Volker a Duke commit had 4 assists to go along with her 10 points. She was able to find open teamates when pressured or double teamed.