Tonight the South Medford Panthers beat their cross town rivals the North Medford Back Tornado 62 to 51 in boy's high school basketball game .The South Medford gym was packed in a pressure cooker atmosphere.The game felt like a heavy weight fight. The snack bar was well used and the South Medford Booster Club was selling South gear in the gym's lobby. There was a large contingent of fans for both schools, along with their cheer leaders and the South Medford Band. At half time The Sparrow Club's from both schools raised $1900.00 from the crowd for physically disadvantaged little kids who were honored guests at the game. The game was hard fought and closer than the final score. South's E. J. Singler, who has signed a "letter of intent" to play basketball at the University of Oregon, played a great game with 25 points. South's Josh Havired was hot from the corner with three point shots. He had 7 three pointers!(7 of 8) The lead changed hands several time. It got very hot in the gym and it was a relief to go outside after the game into the cold Southern Oregon weather. Both teams played their hearts out and it was a perfect Friday night high school game. Even the "Star Spangled Banner" was beautifully sung by a young girl. It was small town high school sports at it's best. Go Panthers!
