Panther Classic Breakouts: Who Stole the Show?

<hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   The 53rd Annual Panther Classic tipped off this past weekend at Harrah High School and once again lived up to its reputation as one of the area's premier early-season tournaments. Over the course of three days, the event featured a strong field of teams from multiple classifications, producing a series of highly competitive games and showcasing some of the top individual talent in the state. From opening-round battles to the championship finale, the tournament provided a valuable measuring stick for programs as they continue to build momentum heading deeper into the season.   The boys' championship game delivered an entertaining conclusion, as Heritage Hall (Class 3A) captured the title with a hard-fought 77–73 victory over Bishop McGuinness (Class 5A). The matchup highlighted the contrast in styles and depth between two well-coached programs, with both teams trading runs and responding to pressure throughout the contest. Heritage Hall's poise and execution down the stretch proved to be the difference, as the Chargers made timely plays on both ends of the floor to secure the championship against a quality 5A opponent.   Overall, the Panther Classic served as a showcase for competitive basketball, emerging stars, and high-level execution, setting the stage for what promises to be an exciting remainder of the season for many of the participating teams.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   MVP   [player_tooltip player_id='2140723' first='Braelon' last='Bradshaw'] Junior | Wing | Heritage Hall   Bradshaw repeatedly carried the Chargers during the championship matchup, stepping up in key moments as the two teams exchanged runs and momentum throughout the game. Time and again, he rose to the occasion, providing stability and production when his team needed it most. The 6'5” junior once again reinforced why he is widely regarded as one of the premier all-around players in the state, impacting the game across multiple facets.   His athleticism was on full display all weekend, separating him from others on the floor. Bradshaw showcased his explosiveness with powerful dunks, quick second jumps that allowed him to outwork opponents on the glass, and a variety of dynamic finishes above the rim. He consistently played above the basket, creating highlight-level plays while also generating extra possessions for his team. He led Heritage Hall in rebounding, using both his strength and instincts to control the boards.   In the second half of Saturday's title game, Bradshaw expanded his impact even further by demonstrating his ability to create for others. Whether drawing multiple defenders and making the right pass or initiating offense to keep his teammates involved, he showed improved playmaking and court awareness. His versatility, motor, and leadership were evident throughout the championship run, underscoring his value as a complete player and the engine behind the Chargers' success.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Sleeper of the Tournament   [player_tooltip player_id='2140785' first='Porter' last='Gillispie'] Junior | Point Guard | Heritage Hall   Gillispie emerged as a steady and reliable presence for the Chargers throughout the tournament, consistently providing production and poise in key moments. He showcased a smooth, confident jump shot from both inside the arc and beyond it, giving Heritage Hall a dependable scoring option whenever the offense needed a spark. His ability to knock down shots under pressure was particularly evident, as he connected on several timely, clutch three-pointers that helped the Chargers sustain momentum in all three rounds of play.   The 6'1” guard delivered well-rounded performances across the tournament, averaging just over 10 points per game while also contributing approximately four assists and four rebounds per contest. His efficiency stood out as much as his consistency, as he shot an impressive 50 percent from three-point range, forcing defenses to respect his perimeter shooting and opening opportunities for his teammates. Gillispie's composure, shot-making, and all-around contributions played a key role in Heritage Hall's success and earned him a well-deserved spot on the All-Tournament Team.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   Stock on the Rise   [player_tooltip player_id='2399339' first='Isaiah' last='Nelson'] Sophomore | Guard | Bishop McGuinness   The sophomore has been on an impressive tear to begin the season, quickly establishing himself as a key contributor for McGuinness. He opened the tournament with a standout performance against Star-Spencer on Thursday, finishing with 18 points and six assists. His ability to consistently create scoring opportunities for his teammates, while remaining highly efficient as a perimeter shooter, proved to be a major factor in helping McGuinness pull away from the Bobcats and control the flow of the game.   Nelson continued to shine in high-pressure situations, delivering once again in clutch moments during the semifinal matchup against Shawnee. Even as McGuinness ultimately fell in a tightly contested championship game, his impact remained evident on both ends of the floor. His growth on the defensive side has been particularly noteworthy, as he recorded at least two steals in every game of the tournament. That combination of offensive efficiency, playmaking, and defensive activity highlights his continued development and underscores his rising importance to the team as the season progresses.   <hr class="wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity" />   <h3 class="wp-block-heading">Under the Radar</h3>   [player_tooltip player_id='2404099' first='Denton' last='Suthers'] Senior | Guard | Heritage Hall   The 5'10” senior has opened the season on a strong note. Entering the tournament, Suthers was playing with growing confidence after an 18-point performance against OCA, and he carried that momentum throughout the weekend to help lift the Chargers to a championship title.   While he may not be the primary scoring option every night, Suthers' game complements those around him exceptionally well. His defensive intensity consistently creates opportunities, leading to multiple steals and timely back tips. Offensively, his vision in the open floor allows him to push the pace and get the ball ahead to teammates, helping spark confident fast-break finishes.   Don't be fooled by his height, Suthers is comfortable taking opposing guards into the paint and features a smooth turnaround half-fade that creates separation and scoring opportunities. A reliable two-way presence, he continues to prove his value in ways that go beyond the box score.