Gensler’s Career Night Leads USC’s Comeback Against Peters
It was only the first section game of the season, but both Upper St. Clair and Peters Township may look back on the importance of Friday night’s section opener when it comes down to playoff positioning at the end of the season.
Senior Tanner Gensler finished with a career-high and school record in a game, 42 points to lead the Panthers to an 86-81 overtime victory at home to open Section 2-6A play. Gensler also finished with eight rebounds, four assists, and two blocks.
Entering the fourth quarter, the Indians held a 60-48 advantage, but were outscored 26-14 in the fourth quarter and 12-7 in overtime. Gensler scored eight of his points in overtime to seal the win.
Also having a stellar game for the Panthers was senior Chris Pantellis with 21 points.
For Peters Township, junior Colin Cote led the team with 28 points. Senior Thomas Melonja finished with 16 points. Senior Sean Werner and junior Michael McDonnell finished with 14 and 10 points, respectively.
With the win, Upper St. Clair improves to 4-0 overall and 1-0 in the section. The Panthers will host Plum in a non-section game on Monday at 7:30 p.m.
Peters Township drops to 2-2 overall and 0-1 in the section. The Indians will travel down to the Sunshine State to compete in the KSA Disney Classic next. Their first game will be on Thursday against Gonzaga High School (CAN) at 12:30 p.m.