In the first game of Sectional 19, No. 4 Mishawaka Marian beat No. 9 South Bend Washington in game that the Knights lead wire to wire, but the Panthers still had a chance to win in the final minutes.

Freshman Deaglan Sullivan showed no signs of nerves as he pushed Marian to early lead. He scored the first five points of the game. Washington wasn’t able to get an offensive rhythm against Marian’s zone defense. Turnovers were a major problem for the Panthers as Washington had six in the first quarter alone.

With Washington struggling to score, Marian opened a 15-2 lead late in the first period. The Panthers received a shot in the arm from senior guard Janye Griffin. He hit a three midway through the second quarter then was fouled on another three-point attempt. Minutes later, Jylen Petty made two free throws to make it a four-point game. Petty was active throughout the half on the glass.

In the second half, Jerry Bracey put his stamp on the game. The quick Marian guard scored or set-up his teammates for scores on the majority of the Knights third quarter possessions. He knocked down a couple of jumpers from the elbow to keep Washington at bay.

In the third quarter, Jalen Miller started to make an impact for Washington. It seemed like he grabbed every rebound in the period. His effort and energy helped get the Panthers back in the game. He gave Washington extra shots throughout the game.

Sullivan gave Marian another boost with a score at the end of the third then two free throws to begin the fourth. After those four straight points, Marian’s lead was back to 10 points. Seconds later, Bracey scored an and-1 to push the lead to 13 points.

Midway through the fourth, Marian’s lead reached 14 points. Washington wasn’t going quietly. DeMarcus Vaughn started to heat up down the stretch. He scored six quick points to get Washington within seven points. But in the end, Marian had enough to hold.

Marian won 55-47 to advance in Sectional 19. The Knights play St. Joe on Friday.

Jerry Bracey led Mishawaka Marian with 19 points, seven rebounds, five assists, and two steals. Freshman Deaglan Sullivan added 17 points and four rebounds. Kaleo Kakalia had 10 points. Dar’e’on Thorton had five.

DeMarcus Vaughn scored 15 points to lead Washington. He also had five rebounds. Jylen Petty had 14 points and 10 rebounds in the loss. Janye Griffin tallied eight. Jalen Miller recorded five points and nine rebounds.