Chanute, KS- It wasn't the prettiest game of the season, but this time of year you take the wins however you can get them. 

"Hey this time of year a win is a win" said Coach Jeremy Coombs "One point or twenty points you win and advance and that's all that matters."

The first half was by far one of the Panther's best defensive performances of the season as Neosho held Independence to just 19 points and led 19-28 at the break.

"Coach has really been preaching team defense, staying on edge for the entire possession and playing hard for 40 minutes" said Sophomore guard Tyson Downing  "We want to win this tournament and understand defense is what it will take to get it done."

In the second half the Panther's came out firing on all cylinders. Jalen Jackson led the Panthers with 24 points (3-7 from behind the arc and 9-10 from the free throw line) Marc Moon also chipped in 10 points (5-7 from the field) and 7 assists. 

The two teams would exchange buckets down the stretch but the Panthers would put the Pirates away by knocking down some big free throws and would eventually take a 75-65 victory. With the win Neosho advances to the quarterfinals of the Region VI tournament and will play Coffeyville Community College at 5:00 pm at Hartman Arena in Park City, KS.

"We have played Coffeyville twice this year and both games have been a knock down drag out battle." said Coach Jeremy Coombs "Coffeyville has one of the most talented teams out there and have a ton of offensive weapons so it should be another great game."