In a highly anticipated second matchup of the season, the Royall girls basketball team hosted Hillsboro Tigers, who hoped to gain a victory. Royall earned the Dec. 2 win 57–52 in its first meeting of the season. On Jan. 17, Royall won again, by 63–53. In the week eight Wissports.net girls basketball coaches’ poll, Royall is ranked seventh, with Hillsboro behind in eighth.
Within the first few seconds, Makayla Martin attempts to regain possession from Lexie Thorson. (Tasha Mueller photo)
Kasey Jones extends to the basket past Violet Morren, stacking on an additional 2 points in the second half. Jones rounded out the game with 6 points. (Tasha Mueller photo)
Marah Gruen peeks through her side-swiped hair for a second-half pass. Gruen notched 16 points in the 63–53 victory on Jan. 17. (Tasha Mueller photo)
Brooklyn Gruen makes a connected basket in the second half. Gruen additionally knocked down three 3-point buckets, her most of the season, earning 13 points for the Panthers. (Tasha Mueller photo)
Cailey Simons leaps high for a quick layup, adding 14 for the Panthers. (Tasha Mueller photo)
Bria Gruen knocks the pass free from Violet Morren; Gruen earned 7 points in the victory. Royall additionally gained wins over Cashton 47–46 and Weston 60–27 on Jan. 20 and Jan. 23, respectively. Royall is now tied for first with Bangor in conference standings at 8–1 and 14–2 overall. The Panthers will travel to New Lisbon, Wonewoc-Center and Bangor on Jan. 26, Jan. 31, and Feb. 3. (Tasha Mueller photo)