Late Run Gives Franklin Regional Sweep Against Mars

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The Franklin Regional girls basketball closed the game on a 13-4 run to defeat the visiting and defending PIAA Class 5A girls basketball champions, Mars, 54-45, Monday night in Section 2 action.

The Panthers stand alone in second place after picking up its second win of the season against the Planets.

In the first game on Jan. 3, senior Jordan Yaniga hit a last second shot for the win. Yaniga played another key role on Monday night, finishing with a game-high 20 points, including the first 10 points of the fourth quarter for Franklin Regional.

Yaniga also started the game hot for the Panthers, scoring eight points in the first quarter. Senior Cali Konek stepped up as well, adding 19 points in the win.

Mars was led by senior Tai Johnson who poured in 14 of her 19 points in the second half. Junior Bella Pelaia and sophomore Ellie Coffield finished with 12 and 10 points, respectively.

With the win, Franklin Regional improves to 12-4 overall and 7-2 in the section. They sit a game behind Gateway for first place. The Panthers will seek their fourth straight win in a non-section game tonight at Latrobe at 7:30 p.m.

Mars falls to 13-5 overall and 6-4 in the section. The Planets will travel to Hollidaysburg in a non-section game on Thursday at 7:30 p.m.