The Kokomo Post Sports - Game of the Week: Taylor Titans vs Western Panthers (Photo Gallery)

Western High School hosted an intense rivalry game between Western and Taylor on Saturday night. Both teams entered the matchup confident in their ability to win, and the game ultimately came down to the final seconds.Both teams came out ready to compete.

In the first quarter, Taylor capitalized on gaps in the Panthers’ defense, scoring easy points inside. Meanwhile, Western moved the ball well on offense but struggled to convert open shots. Taylor held a slim 12-11 lead at the end of the first quarter.

The Titans ramped up their defensive intensity in the second quarter, which helped them build a 28-20 halftime lead. However, Western’s offensive struggles didn’t last. The Panthers found their rhythm in the third quarter, taking advantage of Taylor’s mental lapses and limiting the Titans to one shot per possession. This shift allowed Western to take a 39-35 lead heading into the fourth quarter.

Facing an eight-point deficit with 1:12 left in the game, Taylor mounted a furious comeback. A series of and-one opportunities and a critical offensive rebound by Javionne Harris after a missed free throw helped the Titans pull off a dramatic 50-49 victory.