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Story by Wes Merriott

In a pivotal clash with significant playoff ramifications, the Parkway Boys Basketball team welcomed the Natchitoches Central Chiefs for the season’s final showdown on their home court Tuesday night. Ranked fourth in the 5A power rankings by GeauxPreps.com, the Chiefs posed a formidable challenge to the 25th-ranked Panthers in a game charged with anticipation.

The excitement was palpable as Parkway sophomore Antonio Gladney leaped for the tipoff against Natchitoches Central, signaling the start of a contest that would soon become a testament to tenacity and skill.

However, the game’s start was marred by a 34-minute delay, as the referees slated to officiate were nowhere to be seen until well after the scheduled commencement. Undeterred, both teams quickly got into rhythm, exchanging layups in a rapid back-and-forth. The Chiefs showcased a robust defense throughout the first quarter, pushing into Panther territory with vigor. Yet, it was Natchitoches Demery’s flawless free-throw performance, sinking 4 out of 4, that edged the Chiefs ahead by four points as the quarter concluded.

The second quarter saw Parkway’s senior Savion Bell, a towering 6’5″ center, snatch several crucial rebounds and nail a three-pointer, keeping the Panthers within striking distance. Despite a rigorous full-court press by Natchitoches and several missed calls by the referees, Parkway’s spirit remained unbroken.

Parkway sophomore Kaleb Williams seemed to attract the most attention from the Chiefs – being pushed, pulled, shoved, and grabbed seemingly with impunity throughout the game.

Highlighting the quarter, senior Brhaelyn Brown dazzled with a crossover move and consecutive three-pointers, propelling the Panthers into the lead. Their resilience shone, maintaining a four-point advantage at halftime.

Entering the second half with determination, Kaleb Williams extended Parkway’s lead with an expert three-pointer. However, the Chiefs responded, momentarily reclaiming control with a 7-0 run. The Panthers, undaunted, closed the third quarter trailing by only five points.

The final quarter’s intensity escalated as the Chiefs extended their lead, benefiting from questionable officiating decisions. Yet, Parkway’s resolve was unshakable. Sparked by Brhaelyn Brown’s sharpshooting and Kaleb Williams’s clutch free throws, the Panthers clawed back, tying the game at 77-77 in the final moments and forcing overtime..

Overtime was a nail-biter, with both teams exchanging leads. A strategic no-look pass from Williams to Phat Mayweather clinched a vital two-point advantage for Parkway. In the waning seconds, a Chiefs’ layup tantalizingly rolled off the rim, securing a thrilling upset victory for the Panthers over their top-rated district rivals.

Post-game, Parkway’s Head Coach Brian Rayner praised his team’s relentless effort and physical play. This monumental victory not only promises to shake up the playoff seedings but also sends a resounding message of perseverance across the 5A non-select division. On this unforgettable night, the “P” at the center of the court stood not just for Parkway, but for perseverance, encapsulating the spirit of a team that refused to yield under pressure.

Follow sobo.live on Facebook and Subscribe to sobo.live on YouTube to ensure you never miss a live broadcast. Playoff coverage begins Thursday, February 15th, with the Parkway Lady Panthers hosting their first home playoff game.