PBR Inside Look: Duncanville Pantherettes

00	Zarielle Green	Guard	Freshman	6'0"
10	Jasmin Taylor	Guard	Senior	5'8"
11	Chrineisha Davis	Guard	Junior	5'8"
12	Aakilah Caldwell	Guard	Sophomore	5'9"
14	Rosie Davis	Guard	Junior	5'8"
15	Tae Davis	Guard	Sophomore	5'7"
23	Asjha White-Silas	Guard	Senior	5'9"
33	Khali Pippins-Tyron	Guard	Senior	5'9"
40	Ciera Johnson	Post	Junior	6'4"
41	Madison Townley	Forward	Junior	5'11"
50	Korie Leary	Post	Junior	6'0"

Advanced fundamentals, size, speed, high-percentage shooters, defensive threats and rebounding machines, the Duncanville High School Pantherettes are a difficult team to beat. On January 30th, the Pantherettes played at home against district rival South Grand Prairie High School. Under the direction of Coach Cathy Self-Morgan, the talented and deep-benched Pantherettes entered the evening 26-5 for the season and 9-0 in district play. They jumped out to a quick lead, 21-8 at the end of the first quarter. The lead grew to 38-22 at halftime, with the final score 65-45. Coach Samantha Morrow’s Lady Warrior squad is no easy feat—21-7 for the season and 5-4 in district—as this was a big win for the unprecedented Pantherette squad.

Zarielle Green is a 6’0” guard that has arguably more talent than most freshmen, and already possesses the size and length necessary to compete not just at the Varsity level, but also in college. For the night, she had 21 points, five rebounds, three assists and four steals. Her quick and effective release permits her to score consistently outside the paint. Green also has advanced floor vision, anticipates passes and plays hard nose on-the-ball defense. She rebounds really well for a guard, and makes it a priority to block out around the perimeter. Green is unquestionably playing for a coach and a program that will help develop her massive potential.

At 6’4”, Ciera Johnson is one of the top junior posts in the nation. Her 17 points, 10 rebounds and three blocks demonstrate how much she changes the direction of a game when she steps on the floor. Johnson has the unique skill to maximize space: she knows how to position herself to score, makes strong power moves to the basket, and works hard under the boards to get rebounds. She improves more each season and will undoubtedly be making headlines for years to come.

Rice University commit Jasmin Taylor is a 5’8” senior guard who immediately positions herself as a leader on the floor. Against South Grand Prairie, she recorded four points, four rebounds, 11 assists and two steals. Taylor is the whole package, with sound fundamentals and a relentlessly high energy level. If this Pantherette team needs someone to score, she possesses the confidence and talent to do so.

Other headline players include 5’11” junior forward Madison Townsley and 5’7” sophomore guard Tae Davis. Townsley’s presence on the court rarely goes unnoticed, with her diverse skill set and the ability to play inside or outside the paint. Playing the game with an injured wrist did not prevent her from working hard against the Lady Warriors. Davis is an electric, difference-maker, who is solid in all facets of the game. She will be sure to play a fundamental role in leading this program for the next two years.

The Lady Pantherettes will be a difficult team to keep out of the State Tournament in San Antonio in March. However, their journey does not end there; this proficient team returns four out of five starters next year. Hoop fans in the Duncanville “City of Champions” continue to have a lot to be excited about.