PRATT, Kan. — The Neosho County Panthers opened their 2025–26 campaign this weekend at the Baymont Classic, proving that while the scoreboard didn't swing their way, the foundation for a gritty, high-octane season is already in motion.
The two-day showcase at Pratt featured back-to-back tests against strong Division I opponents — Lamar Community College on Friday night and Western Oklahoma State College on Saturday morning. Both games pushed the young Panthers to find identity through adversity, and by the end of the weekend, their fight was undeniable.

Game 1: Lamar CC 77 – Neosho County 55
Friday's opener saw Neosho battling to find rhythm against a physical Lamar team that controlled the paint early. Despite cold shooting, the Panthers refused to fade. Laynie Winfrey and Chloe Parker led the way with 10 points each, while Jaida Harris dominated the boards with 10 rebounds. Sophia Mireles came off the bench with a spark and seven points, showing composure beyond her years.
Defensively, Neosho made noise with 17 team steals, keeping energy high even as Lamar pulled away late. It was a lesson in poise and proof that this group has the toughness to compete through rough stretches.

Game 2: Western Oklahoma State 97 – Neosho County 87
The Panthers came back swinging on Day 2, and their offense came alive. After scoring just 27 first-half points, Neosho erupted for 34 in the third quarter, nearly erasing a double-digit deficit. Laynie Winfrey caught fire, dropping 24 points with six three-pointers, while Chloe Parker added 15 points and four steals.
The bench came alive too — Azura Clark and Jayla Wilson each poured in 11 points, both shooting confidently from deep, and Jaida Harris stayed perfect inside with 10 points on 3-for-3 shooting. The Panthers hit 17 threes total, a testament to the team's spacing, unselfish ball movement, and improved shot selection.
Head Coach JJ Davis praised the response: "We grew up a little this weekend. The score doesn't always show it, but the heart, the chemistry — that's starting to click. This group is going to be fun."

Neosho leaves Pratt with a 0–2 record, but plenty of momentum. The weekend showed flashes of an explosive offense and a defense willing to grind for 40 minutes.
With the Baymont Classic now in the books, the Panthers return home with lessons learned, confidence earned, and the clear sense that their climb has just begun.

The Lady Panthers return to action, Tuesday, November 4^th, as they travel to El Reno, OK, to take on Redlands Community College. Tip-Off set for 5:30 PM