RANGELY | After securing a win over Soroco last Saturday, the Rangely Panthers boys basketball team entered Tuesday night’s game against the Meeker Cowboys with confidence. The Panthers carried a 5-6 record into the contest, while the Cowboys, at 0-8, were looking for their first win of the 2024-25 season. Meeker broke through, leaving Rangely with a hard-fought victory.
The Panthers have struggled against the Cowboys in recent matchups, dropping the last five games between the two teams.
Despite the loss, the Panthers delivered strong offensive performances. Senior Marcos Quintana led the way with a double-double, scoring 20 points and grabbing 11 rebounds. Quintana has now improved his scoring output in three consecutive games. Junior Landon Bollinger also impressed in the game on Tuesday, he recorded a double-double with 12 points and nine rebounds.
Rangely excelled on the boards, pulling down 17 offensive rebounds. This continues a trend for the Panthers, who have recorded at least 10 offensive rebounds in their last six games. However, they struggled to contain Meeker senior Alex Garcia, who went 5-for-8 from the field en route to 16 points and eight rebounds. Drew Drake also caused problems for Rangely, tallying a double-double with 13 points and 11 rebounds.
The loss dropped the Panthers to 5-7 on the season.
On Thursday night, Rangely hosted Caprock Academy but suffered another setback, losing 50-42. The Panthers had previously defeated Caprock Academy 51-34 in February 2024 but were unable to replicate that success.
Despite the loss, there were bright spots. Senior Clay Allred contributed eight points and nine steals. Allred has been a defensive standout, recording at least two steals in each of his last three games. Bollinger also had a strong showing with four points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
The Panthers grabbed 11 offensive rebounds against Caprock Academy, extending their streak to seven consecutive games with double-digit offensive boards. The loss brought Rangely’s record to 5-8.
Looking ahead, the Panthers will host Vail Mountain on Friday, with tipoff set for 7 p.m. They will then face North Park on Saturday, with the varsity game beginning at 3:30 p.m. Fans are encouraged to attend and support the team.
Good luck this weekend, and go Panthers!
By JARED HENDERSON | [email protected]