Phantoms Edge Gladiators 93-91 on Sanchez's Late Heroics
Sanchez's 37 Points Lead Phantoms to Narrow Victory Over Gladiators
By Sarah Jenkins
PHILADELPHIA – The Philadelphia Phantoms secured a heart-stopping 93-91 victory over the Barcelona Gladiators on Saturday night in a World Pro League clash that came down to the final possession. Zara Sanchez poured in a game-high 37 points, including a clutch late-game performance, to lift the home team to a crucial win.
The game was a back-and-forth affair from the opening tip, with neither team able to establish a significant lead. The Gladiators, battling foul trouble and a cold-shooting first half, clawed their way back into contention, fueled by Maya Flores’ 16 points. However, Barcelona’s struggles at the free-throw line proved costly, as they converted just 7 of 16 attempts.
Sanchez was the offensive engine for the Phantoms, consistently finding ways to score against a stout Gladiators defense. She was ably supported by Catalina Vega, who contributed 12 points, 7 rebounds, and 3 assists, along with several key defensive plays. The third quarter saw a momentum swing when Maya Singh hit a crucial three-pointer, igniting a run that the Phantoms never relinquished entirely.
Despite a furious rally by Barcelona in the final minutes, where Priya Sharma orchestrated the offense with 7 assists, a missed last-second shot by the Gladiators sealed their fate. “We knew it was going to be a dogfight,” said Phantoms head coach David Miller. “Zara was phenomenal tonight, but this was a total team effort. We dug deep and found a way.”
Sanchez, reflecting on the win, added, “We left it all on the court. It feels incredible to get this victory at home. We have to build on this energy.”
Key Notes:
- Zara Sanchez led all scorers with 37 points.
- Barcelona Gladiators struggled at the free-throw line, shooting 43.8% (7/16).
- Catalina Vega added a valuable double-double effort with 12 points and 7 rebounds.