HANOVER, Ind. – The Panthers presented a strong fourth quarter surge to defeat Heartland Collegiate Athletic Conference rival Franklin on Wednesday evening inside Collier Arena, 66-60.
 
Hanover was led by freshman Taylor Heath (Fairland, Ind.) with a game-high 25 points, six steals, and five assists. Junior Callie Wilder (North Vernon, Ind.) added 14 points for the Blue and Red.
 
Hanover dominated the opening minutes of the first half entering the break with a 35-31 advantage. However, it would trigger the Grizzlies as they were able to erase a six-point deficit tying the contest at 44-44 with just under two minutes remaining in the third period. Franklin dealt the final blow in rout to their first second half lead.
 
After finding themselves on the wrong side of a 54-49 advantage, Hanover cranked up the pressure. Heath paced the Panther comeback as she hit a runner in the lane before sinking a pair of free throws to put HC back on-top.
 
The Panthers ran away with the contest down the stretch as Wilder sank a series of clutch jumpers to propel Hanover to victory.
 
The Blue and Red return to action on Saturday, Feb. 12 when they travel to Manchester. Game time is set for 4:00 PM.