VICKSBURG – The Brookhaven Panthers and Lady Panthers suffered two disappointing setbacks in the season opener against Vicksburg Thursday night.

In the girls contest, the Lady Panthers lost a 41-39 heartbreaker to the Lady Gators. In the boys’ game, the Gators surpassed the Panthers 53-42.

Brookhaven resumes action Thursday as they prepare to travel to Terry to take on the Terry Bulldogs for three games. Junior varsity action starts at 5 p.m., followed by the girls and boys varsity contest.

Vicksburg 41, Brookhaven 39 

The Lady Gators came out strong and took a commanding 25-18 lead into halftime.

In the second half, the Lady Panthers battled back and outscored Vicksburg 21-15 to fall short at the end from stealing away the victory.

Kynitria Hill pumped in a game-high double-double of 16 points and 11 rebounds to lead the Lady Panther. Asia Byrd also provided Ole Brook with a double-double performance with 11 points and 10 rebounds.

Keiyanna Gaskin was the top scorer for the Lady Gators with 11 points. Glenisha Fortenberry led on the boards with 11 rebounds. Karry Callahan collected 10 rebounds.

Vicksburg 53, Brookhaven 42 

The Gators started the contest strong, just like the girls did, to secured a 12-8 after one quarter of action,

Ole Brook rallied back to outscored Vicksburg 15-11 in the second quarter to tied the contest at 23-all at halftime.

In the second half, Vicksburg overpowered the Panthers with a 30-19 surge to secured the victory.

“The guys played a great game overall,” said BHS coach Preston Wilson. “Vicksburg managed to dominate the offensive boards for second chance opportunities, which was the major deciding factor.”

Shon Blackwell was the offensive leader for the Panthers with 12 points. Damarius Brooks netted 11 points. Garrock Smith powered the Panthers on the boards with seven rebounds. Marte Jones helped with six rebounds.

Justin Selvy scored a game-high double-double of 21 points and 14 rebounds to lead the Gators. Kirk Parker helped on the boards with 12 rebounds.