Franklin Regional girls focus on winning close games in bid to return to playoffs

By: Josh Rizzo
Wednesday, November 15, 2023 | 6:06 PM

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Franklin Regional junior Toryn Fulton doesn’t want to see the Panthers’ girls basketball program run out of gas. All offseason, Fulton and her teammates have been looking to make sure they have the legs to keep up with the challenges that lay ahead.

“We need to compete at the same pace as other teams,” Fulton said. “We need to really keep into the game the entire game and not just the first half. Last year, we would get after it in the first half and get tired later on. Beginning with our fall practices, we were running some on the track and staying in shape.”

Franklin Regional felt like it wasn’t far away from making the WPIAL Class 5A playoffs last season. Six of the Panthers’ losses came by a combined 18 points. Franklin Regional finished 9-13 and wound up on the outside looking in after a battle with Kiski Area and Penn Hills down the stretch.

The Panthers will open this season Dec. 1 against Hempfield at the Laurel Highlands Tip-off Tournament.

Losing so many close games was tough for Franklin Regional coach Bernie Pucka.

“That was a hard pill to swallow,” Pucka said. “We want to compete at that level again but get over the hump this year.”

Fulton, a forward, is committed to play softball at South Florida. On the basketball court, Fulton has become much more comfortable with what she has to do.

Fulton’s improved comfort level will be important for Franklin Regional. The Panthers will lean on their experience underneath while their guards grow into their roles.

In addition to Fulton, centers Olivia Orndoff and Gabrielle Keough will return for Franklin Regional.

“I’ve improved the most with my confidence,” Fulton said. “Playing basketball for me, the skill is there, but it’s the confidence part I lacked. I’ve been scared to touch the ball. I’d always pass it out. Gaining confidence helped me get the points we need for the team and anything else we need.”

Franklin Regional also will get a boost with senior guard Angelina Brush returning. Brush missed all of last season because of a torn ACL. Madison DeRiggi also will be playing guard for the Panthers this season.

Franklin Regional will be in Section 1-5A with Gateway, Indiana, Kiski Area, Penn Hills, Plum and Woodland Hills.

The Panthers believe they will be in contention for a playoff spot. Fulton said the older players’ experience will help them get the younger players acclimated to the team.

“I remember as a freshman coming into varsity basketball, it was a big change,” Fulton said. “At practices, we’ve been trying to get them the ball and move at a pace the varsity team would. That will help show them what it’s going to be like during the season.”

Franklin Regional girls at a glance

Coach: Bernie Pucka

Last year’s record: 9-13, 5-7 in Section 1-5A

Key returners: Toryn Fulton (Jr., F), Olivia Orndoff (Jr., C) , Gabrielle Keough (Jr., C), Angelina Brush (Jr., G), Madison DeRiggi (So., G)

Tags: Franklin Regional