Kendall Rooker is an ASU Cronkite School of Journalism student assigned to cover Peoria High School for AZPreps365.com

No. 1 Peoria opened up its playoff quest at home against No. 16  Bradshaw, fueled by last year's early exit.

“Using the fuel from last year’s home playoff game,” said coach Patrick Battillo. “Approach the game the same … make sure we are locked in on the next day whether that’s practice or for a game.”

The Panthers didn’t forget about last year's early exit and dominated the Bears, 89-49

The Panthers came out fast from opening tip-off clearly wanting to make a statement. Junior center Kevin Kogbara opened the game with a 3-pointer en route to a 24-9 first quarter lead.

“In order for us to be good I have to be in attack mode at all times,” said Kogbara, who finished with 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 7 assits. “Our goal isn’t to win one game it is to win state.”

He had a lot of help from freshman Andrew Camacho.

“I love when teams play zone, it gives me an open shot,” said Camacho.

Camacho lead his team in scoring with 29 points, he hit seven three pointers.

“Feels good (for first playoff game) I have a lot more confidence,” said Camacho. “We are prepared for the next game.”

This team has one common theme moving forward: confidence. You could see by their hustle.

“We executed fairly well overall,” said Battillo.

The Panthers can score the ball with their explosive offense. On defense they didn’t let their opposition breathe. 

During the second half the Panthers outscored the Bears 50-22, increasing their halftime lead 39-27.

 “(We need) to be locked in and focused on preparations and in-game adjustments,” said Battillo about moving on to the next round.

The Panthers play Friday night against the No. 8 seeded Deer Valley.