The NDB Tigers faced the Priory Panthers for the annual Catfight basketball game last Wednesday, January 24. Despite a setback with the JV team’s loss, the Varsity team was resolute in showcasing their skills.
At 6 p.m., the “fight” began. NDB held their own for the first quarter of the game with some strong defense and a couple of free throws, ending 14-17.
Keeping up the intensity, the Tigers won the second quarter 12-11, but Priory’s points from the previous quarter kept them in the lead.
Coming out of half-time, the third quarter was still tight. Fast breaks and multiple layups by freshman Sammy Kakala kept it a close 34-43 for the Tigers.
“I think we started out with a lot of energy, which is what we came out to do,” said sophomore Lizzie Johnson. “We played really well. It went a little downhill, but I think we picked the energy back up and finished strong.”
By the fourth quarter, NDB had lost steam, but they kept pressuring their opponents. Priory learned who the strong players were and kept them guarded.
In addition to skill, there was a height advantage for the Panthers, getting most of the layups and rebounds. This resulted in an overall 38-64 loss.
The event also included the Spirit Squad’s senior night. Before the game, its seven seniors were honored with flowers, accompanied by shared memories highlighting their cherished moments with the team. During halftime, the Varsity cheer team previewed its routine for the upcoming USA Nationals competition.
The theme of this year’s Catfight game was “Lights Out.” NDB fans came dressed in all-black in support of their team. The game was also a spirit point event, which motivated students to attend and build up their class’ points.
“I feel like there was a good turnout, but I wanted to see more cheering,” said senior-in-attendance Fiona Maroun. “Maybe we could rehearse a couple of cheers to get everyone hyped.”
Catfight used to be as anticipated as the annual Dig Pink game, but with the shuffling of athletic leagues, it has been difficult to recreate the same environment in the gym.
This tradition began in the mid-2000s when NDB played Presentation HS in the WCAL league. However, when NDB moved to the WBAL league in 2016, a new opponent was needed and Woodside Priory School, with its Panther mascot, stepped into the role.
