Panthers get going early, beat Tigers

Mead used flashy first-quarter play by Ryane LaForte and Erik Hansen as springboard to a 55-42 Greater Spokane League boys basketball victory over visiting Lewis and Clark on Tuesday night.

LaForte scored seven of his 12 points, including a stick-with-it tip-in to end the period, had a steal and several more rebounds in the period. Hansen had eight of his team-high 15 points in the first quarter.

The Panthers tied the Tigers (both 10-9) for the second among 4A district playoff teams, a game ahead of Ferris and Central Valley heading into Thursday’s regular season-ending games. The Panthers finish against Shadle Park, LC hosts Rogers and Ferris plays Mt. Spokane. CV is at East Valley.

Mead led 17-9 after a quarter and was ahead 26-12 at halftime. Sean Hoffmann, who got into early foul trouble, led all scorers with 17 points for LC.

Central Valley 65, University 52: The Bears (9-10) outscored the Titans (3-17) 21-10 in the third quarter at the Arena, bringing an end to U-Hi’s season. Michael Williams scored 20 points and J.C. Agen had 17 points and nine rebounds during Stinky Sneaker night. Spencer Drury of U-Hi led all scorers with 23 points. U-Hi won the spirit competition.

Gonzaga Prep 58, Ferris 53: A pair of senior guards sparkled on Senior Night as the Bullpups (17-2) secured at least a share of the GSL title. Sean Fischer was 6 for 8 from the field, three of his baskets 3-pointers, and perfect at the line for 19 points. David Stockton added 14 points and G-Prep weathered the Saxons’ (9-10) second-half comeback. Justin Stewart scored 19 for Ferris.

North Central 56, Mt. Spokane 47: The Indians (11-8) secured a guaranteed share of third place in league by building a 17 point lead through three quarters over the visiting Wildcats (7-11). The closest Mt. Spokane could get was to within seven points in the fourth quarter. Lucas Evans scored 14 to lead NC. Chaz Johnson had four 3-pointers and 16 points for Mt. Spokane.

Shadle Park 65, East Valley 44: Luke Jordan scored 25 points, hitting five 3-pointers in the easy Highlanders (16-3) win at home. Robby Douglas added three 3-pointers against the Knights (4-15). Shadle remains a game behind G-Prep for first place and is the top district 3A playoff seed.