The host Panthers took a 9-6 lead after a defensive first quarter before both squads found their offense in the second frame and NEB took a 25-21 lead into the break. 

Defense again ruled the third quarter with NEB extending their lead with a 7-5 advantage, and Wellsboro’s 14 fourth quarter points was not enough to catch up as the Panthers netted 17 points to provide the final.

Mitchell Lechler led Wellsboro with 16 points and added 6 rebounds and 3 assists, while Jonathan Carl had 11 points and 5 rebounds. 

Colin Fletcher and Luke Rothermel had 4 points each, Lucas Cuneo and Marek Mascho had two each and Griffin Morral added 1 point. 

“We’re playing hard with good effort from a lot of guys,” said Head Coach Ron Doughtie. “We have some players struggling offensively with new roles that they need to grow into.”

The Hornets (0-2) are scheduled to return to action Thursday when they host Sayre.

_____