The boys basketball team opens midseason tournament play at McPherson’s Roundhouse Thursday.

The Panthers play McPherson at 8:15 p.m. 

This year the competition is tough for the Panthers

It’s never easy playing the host team, which has a storied history. McPherson, led by senior Seth Madron, is a young team. But the Bullpups are talented and will be fully backed by the whole town of McPherson. 

Even though Derby’s first game will be tough, the Panthers are playing well.

Derby has won five of its last 6 games, losing 58-55 to Blue Valley North, the defending 6A champions. In Derby’s win over Newton on Jan. 14, the Panthers hit 16 three-pointers, a school record.