Despite losing a close game to J.F. Shields last week, the Georgiana Panthers will be hosting the area tournament this year.

The Panthers fell 73-68 to Shields after a tough game.

“We led by two points at halftime, but we just couldn’t hold onto it at the end,” said head coach Kirk Norris.

That loss forced a coin toss between J.F. Shields and Georgiana to determine where the area tournament will be held.

“This is the first time in several years that we’ve hosted it,” Norris said.

Jamie Williams had a huge game against Shields, scoring 32 points.

Kevin Thomas also added 11 points.

Following that close loss, the Panthers had a 64-63 loss to Luverne in Crenshaw County.

“We were down by 15 at halftime, but we led by three points with a minute to go,” Norris said.

After Luverne cut the lead to one, Georgiana had a chance to move it back to three points, but missed a pair of free throws.

Luverne hit a shot and a couple of free throws, giving them a one-point lead.

“We missed a shot with seven seconds left,” Norris said. “It was a good look, but we just didn’t convert.”

Damien McIntosh had 19 points, while Jamie Williams scored 17.

On Thursday, the Panthers traveled to Elba where they defeated the Tigers 60-49.

“Damien McIntosh and LaCory Savage were our top scorers with 10 points each, so we had very balanced scoring,” Norris said.

With a five-game road trip coming to an end on Friday against Highland Home, the Panthers are beginning to look at the upcoming tournament.

“Hosting the tournament is the big thing,” Norris said. “We’re just trying to tune up and get ready for it. Everybody’s excited about it, and hopefully we can pull it out and win it since we’re playing at home.”

The Panthers will face off against Frisco City next Friday.