Panhandle Survives Double Overtime Thriller, Claims Area Championship

If Panther faithful thought the Ettes showdown with Wellington was stressful, Friday night raised the bar even higher.

In a game that had everything, Panhandle survived a double overtime classic to defeat Hale Center 75–70 and claim the Area Championship.

The contest featured elite shot making and momentum swings throughout. Hale Center’s Carter Gonzales was electric, pouring in 35 points and keeping the Owls within striking distance all night. On the other end,

Panhandle junior Luke Schmucker erupted for 26 points, matching big play for big play.

But what truly turned this game into an instant classic were the final seconds of regulation.

With time winding down, Landen Andrews buried back to back three pointers in the final 15 seconds to force overtime. Then, after neither team could create separation in the first extra period, the Panthers extended the drama into a second overtime.

That is where momentum finally shifted for good.

Panhandle carried the emotional surge from Andrews’ heroics into the second overtime and began to pull away, executing in the half court and making key stops defensively to secure the 75–70 victory.

In a postseason defined by resilience, the Panthers once again showed their ability to respond under pressure.

With the win, Panhandle advances one step closer to its ultimate goal, surviving and advancing in one of the most thrilling games of the season.