The John Paul II boys basketball team couldn’t overcome a slow start in a 69-52 home loss to Pinewood Prep on Wednesday.
The Golden Warriors trailed 18-3 after one quarter before playing the Panthers virtually even the rest of the way.
Rashad Battiste finished with 22 points and 12 rebounds and Amere Cherry added 13 points, eight rebounds and four steals to lead the Golden Warriors.
JPII coach Stacy Benedik was pleased with his team’s effort on both ends of the floor, especially the defensive effort in holding Furman signee Jalen Slauson to seven points.
JPII (2-5) opens region play Friday at St. Andrew’s.