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DR. PHILLIPS PANTHERS BASKETBALL



DP's 2008-09 Final Record:
        27-3
(Best winning percentage in school history!)

DP's Final Class 6A Poll State Ranking:  #1 (First time in school history to finish the season ranked #1!)

#42 in the ESPN Rise 'Fab 50' National Rankings
(First time in school history being nationally ranked!)

#7 in the Southeast Region

2009 District 5 - Class 6A Champions!

DP's Previous Season Records:
2008-09 - 27-3
2007-08 - 21-6
2006-07 - 25-7
2005-06 - 21-6
2004-05 - 20-6
2003-04 - 20-7
2002-03 - 23-7
2001-02 - 26-8
2000-01 21-11
1999-00 - 20-6
1998-99 - 25-8
1997-98 - 25-8
1996-97 - 30-4
1995-96 - 27-7
1994-95 - 26-8
1993-94 - 27-7

Panthers Currently Playing College Basketball
Chris Warren - Ole Miss
Ray Willis - University of Oklahoma
Mario Sisinni - Coastal Carolina (SC)
Erick Green - Eckerd College (FL)
Justyn Watkins - State Fair CC (MO)
Tyron Louis - Southern Wesleyan University (SC)
Larry Webb - Hiwassee College (TN)

Metro Conference Champions
1992
1993
1994
1995
1997
1998
2000
2004


District Champions
1994
1997
1998
1999
2002
2007
2009

Region Champions (Final Four)
1996
1997
1998
2007

State Runner-Up
2007

2007 Great Florida Shootout Champions

2008-09 Varsity Panthers

#1 Damani Cade

Junior

Wing
6'3"
08-09 Stats
10.6 ppg
4.8 rpg
3.2 apg
1.9 spg
1.1 bpg
37% from three
Returning Starter









#5 Shane Larkin

Sophomore

Guard
5'11"
08-09 Stats
13.0 ppg
6.0 apg
3.4 rpg
3.1 spg
40% from three
2nd Team All-Metro Selection
2nd Team All-Central Florida






#10 Matt Lohr

Junior
Guard
6'
08-09 Stats
1.2 ppg
1.0 apg















#22 Pat Ryan
Junior
Guard
5'11"
08-09 Stats
11.5 ppg
3.5 rpg
3.0 apg
2.0 spg
43% from three














#30 Chris Thomas

Junior
Forward
6'5"
08-09 Stats
1.7 ppg
2.3 rpg















Chris Warren








Welcome to the official website of the Dr. Phillips varsity basketball team.
2008-09 DR. PHILLIPS PANTHERS - VARSITY BASKETBALL TEAM

Back Row - Left to Right:  Head Coach Anthony Long, Tavarus Stevens (#23), Chris Thomas (#30), Andy Lin (#21), Victor Gray (#34), Damani Cade (#33), and Assistant Coach Jason Lee.
Front Row - Left to Right:  Andre Swain (#11), Pat Ryan (#22), Darius Donaldson (#12), Chuck Ford (#4),  Matt Lohr (#10), Shane Larkin (#5), and Isaac Lane (#1).
2009 DISTRICT CHAMPS!


16 CONSECUTIVE 20+ WIN SEASONS
157-42 RECORD OVER THE LAST 7 SEASONS (79%)
8 TIME METRO CHAMPIONS
7 TIME DISTRICT CHAMPIONS
4 TIME REGION CHAMPIONS (FINAL FOUR)
1 STATE RUNNER-UP

Chris Warren (Ole Miss) goes up for two and .....

finishes with authority for two of his 38 points in the 2007 State Championship game.

Ray Willis (University of Oklahoma) surveys the floor in the Panthers state semifinal win over Miami Northwestern.

Tyron Louis (Southern Wesleyan) winds up and ....

throws down a slam against West Orange.

Senior Guard Chuck Ford is continuing DP's tradition of great guards.

Justyn Watkins (State Fair CC) in action against Ely in the State Championship game.



DR. PHILLIPS NEWS & NOTES

May 14, 2009 - Dr. Phillips men's athletics is #1 in the Metro Conference.  Spurred by your own men's basketball team which won the district championship, the men's athletic teams finished #1 overall in the Metro Conference standings for the second time in the last three years!  Football and Track and Field also added district championships which helped propel the Panthers to the top of the overall athletic standings for men's sports in the entire Metro Conference.  Congratulations to the basketball team and all of the men's programs at Dr. Phillips for earning the prestigious honor.

May 13, 2009 - Athletic Physical Information - Dr. Phillips High School is hosting their annual Athletic Physical Night Wednesday May 27th at 6:30 PM in the gym.  The cost is just $20 per physical (cash or check) and is open to student-athletes of all schools and grade levels.  It is NOT necessary to show up exactly at 6:30...we do put every student on a numbered list but the list moves rapidly.  You can easily show up at 7:15 and walk right in.  Any student-athlete(including incoming 9th graders) interested in participating in summer conditioning for any sport or trying out for a team next season MUST have an athletic physical on file with our athletic trainer, Cassie Gross.  This is an excellent opportunity to take care of this requirement and be cleared to play through the end of the school year 2009-2010.  Physicals are conducted by our team physician, Dr. Paul Maluso, and his staff from West Orange Orthopaedics.  Blank physical forms can be picked up from room 618 (Athletic Training room) or downloaded from our website, http://www.dpathletics.net/forms.asp (download ALL forms).  All information must be completed and checked off by Cassie Gross to be cleared to participate in athletics. 

April 27, 2009 - The Panthers commit to participate in two of the nation's elite holiday tournaments over the next two years!    The Dr. Phillips basketball program is proud to announce the Panthers participation in two of the greatest boys basketball tournaments in the country.  In December of 2009 (this season) the Panthers have committed to play in the McDonald's Tampa Hoops Classic.  The 2009 field includes Jersey City St. Anthony, coached by legendary Bob Hurley, Baton Rouge Christian Life (La.) who won the Kingdom of the Sun and return virtually their entire roster, Norfolk Christian (Va.) and Philadelphia Northeast Catholic (Pa.), who feature national top 10 juniors-to-be James McAdoo and Rakeem Christmas, respectively, Miami big-school powerhouses Dr. Krop and Norland, five time defending state champion Jacksonville Arlington Country Day and your Dr. Phillips Panthers who have won 20+ games for 16 consecutive years!  It will be a tourney with some of the best teams in the country....a great way to prepare the Panthers for hopefully a deep playoff run.

And in December of 2010 the Panthers will be returning to Hawaii to play in the prestigious Iolani Classic in Honolulu!  The Iolani Classic always has the country's premier programs usually with 4 to 5 nationally ranked teams.  This will be the Panthers second trip to the Iolani Classic.  DP also participated in the 2003 Iolani which was Jason Rich's senior season (Chris Warren's freshman season).  Dr. Phillips is one of just eight teams from the mainland to get to play in the tournament and one of just a handful of school's from Florida that have ever participated.  The Panther team had a wonderful experience in 2003 going to Pearl Harbor, Waikiki beach,  a luau, the North Shore, as well as a bunch of other beautiful Hawaii sites and the 2010 team will be treated to the same excitement as well as the highest level high school basketball in the country.  Congratulations to the Panthers for being in the great position of being selected to play in such high level tournaments!

 

The Panthers outside of Honolulu in 2003.  DP will be returning in 2010!


The Panthers will return to the USS Arizona memorial at Pearl Harbor in December of 2010!


The Panthers in Hawaii!

March 20, 2009 - Chuck Ford and Shane Larkin are named to the All Central Florida team by the Orlando Sentinel.  Congratulations to senior guard Chuck Ford and sophomore guard Shane Larkin as they were both named to the 2nd Team All-Central Florida basketball team for the 2008-09 season.  The squad is chosen from all of the high schools regardless of class in Orange, Seminole, Volusia, Osceola, Lake, and Sumter counties - over 100 schools.  Chuck Ford was earlier honored as a 1st team all-metro conference selection and Shane Larkin was honored as a 2nd team all- metro selection and now they both can add all Central Florida to their list of honors.  Shane Larkin was one of only two sophomores on the first two teams.  Here are the entire teams:  1st Team - Keith Clanton (OCP - Player of the Year), Martell Buie (Olympia), Tyshawn Patterson (OCP), Austin Rivers (Winter Park), Jayson Guerrier (Oviedo), Dexter Fields (Olympia).  2nd Team - James Bell (Montverde), Darrick Brown (University), Chuck Ford (Dr. Phillips), Shane Larkin (Dr. Phillips), Johnathan Thompson (Jones).


Chuck Ford against West Orange.

March 13, 2009 - Dr. Phillips finishes #14 in Florida in Breakdown's Final All Classes Poll.  Florida's Breakdown Magazine just released their final 'Florida Top 25' poll which is inclusive of all schools in the state regardless of class and the Panthers checked in at the #14 spot.  Not bad for a team that returned just one starter from the previous year.  Congratulations to the Panthers on their ranking.  Here is the entire poll for the 2008-09 season.  1. Coral Reef (27-4 - Class 6A State Champs);  2.  Olympia (28-5 - Class 6A Runner-up);  3. Orlando Christian Prep (28-2 - 1A State Champs);  4. ACDS (24-7 - 2A State Champs);  5. Santaluces (25-4 - 6A Final 4);  6. Ely (24-6 - 6A);  7. Boyd Anderson (25-3 - 6A);  8. Florida Air Academy (20-1 - 2A);  9. Gainesville (28-3 - 5A State Champs);  10. Clearwater (28-4 - 5A Runner-up);  11. Dillard (22-7 - 5A);  12. Pine Crest (22-4 - 3A State Champs);  13. American Heritage (21-6 - 3A);  14. Dr. Phillips (27-3 - 6A);  15. Dwyer (22-8 - 5A Final 4);  16. Montverde (Independent);  17. Winter Park (24-8 - 6A Final 4);  18. Providence (29-2 - 2A);  19. Winter Springs (19-5 - 6A);  20. Martin County (24-3 - 5A);  21. Cocoa (4A State Champs);  22. Lakeland (24-4 - 6A);  23. Springstead (31-1 - 4A Runner-up);  24. Bartow (22-7 - 4A Final 4);  25. Sickles (24-5 - 6A).

March 12, 2009 - The Panthers finish #3 in the Orlando Sentinel's final 'Super 16' poll.  The poll includes all central Florida teams regardless of classification.  Dr. Phillips defeated more teams in the Super 16 than any other team (including those ranked above them) proving the strength of their schedule.  The Panthers defeated an amazing 9 of the top 16 teams and went 10-2 overall against the top 16.  DP defeated #1 Olympia, #4 Winter Park, #6 Jones, #8 Oviedo, #9 Seabreeze, #11 Ocoee, #12 Osceola, #13 Timber Creek, and #16 East Ridge.  Wow!  Congrats again on your fantastic 27-3 season.

March 6, 2009 - The Panthers put two on the All-Metro Conference team.  Congratulations to Panther senior Chuck Ford and DP sophomore Shane Larkin for being named to the 2008-09 All-Metro Conference team as selected by the head coaches in the Metro Conference.  Chuck Ford was named to the first team and Shane Larkin was named to the second team.  Congratulations on the honor and a job well done.  This honor means a lot as it is chosen by the coaches in the conference who have the challenging task of containing these great players.  Here are the entire squads (in order of votes received).  1st Team All-Metro - Austin Rivers (Winter Park);  Dexter Fields (Olympia);  Chuck Ford (Dr. Phillips);  Martell Buie (Olympia);  and Darrick Brown (University).  2nd Team All-Metro - John Thompson (Jones);  Shane Larkin (Dr. Phillips);  Cady Lalane (Oak Ridge);  Sherwood Brown (Olympia);  and Darius Morales (Timber Creek).

    

Chuck Ford - 1st Team               Shane Larkin - 2nd Team

All-Metro - 20.8 ppg,                   All-Metro - 13.0 ppg,

4.2 apg, 2.9 rpg, 1.7 spg               6.0 apg, 3.4 rpg, 3.1 spg

             

February 24, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 53  -  Olympia 57.  The Panthers fall in the regional semifinals to the Titans.  Unfortunately one of the best seasons in Dr. Phillips history came to an end as Olympia defeated Dr. Phillips to advance to the regional finals.  It was the third time the two powerhouses played this season.  Olympia took the first game by four points, DP took the district title game by four points, and Olympia took the rubber match by four points.  Just what you would expect when two great teams are going toe to toe.  The difference in the game was a few empty DP possessions late in the fourth quarter and Olympia capitalized and scored on several of their last possessions.  Damani Cade was the MVP of the game for the Panthers with 15 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists, 2 blocks, and a steal.  Victor Gray added 10 points and 8 rebounds, but no other Panther scored double figures in the defensive struggle.  There's no shame in losing to a quality team like Olympia.  They currently have four seniors already with Division I basketball scholarships - more than the rest of the entire Metro Conference combined.  They are a very talented squad.  Dr. Phillips finishes the season with several noteworthy accomplishments.  After starting the season outside of the top 10 in the state polls, the Panthers finished the season #1 in the state - the first time in school history that a DP team finished the season ranked #1 in the final poll.  DP also cracked into the ESPN Rise 'Fab 50' topping out at #42, the first time a DP team has been nationally ranked.  The Panthers won their 7th district championship over Olympia in a game that most thought DP would lose.  The final record of 27-3 was the best winning percentage in school history and the team broke the school record for most three point baskets in a season.  It was a great season where the team surpassed everyone's expectations.  What a wonderful group.  Thank you very much to the seniors who were the guiding force behind the team - Chuck Ford, Victor Gray, Darius Donaldson, Andre Swain, Andy Lin, and Tavarus Stevens.  Great job!  It was a truly great season that all Panthers will look back upon with fond memories.  Thank you to the entire team for your dedication and commitment and continuing the tradition of excellence of the Dr. Phillips boys basketball program.
Post Script:  Olympia would go on to finish as the Class 6A state runner-up.

February 19, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 77  -  Osceola 62.  The Panthers take down the Kowboys and advance to the regional semifinal round of the playoffs.  Osceola came out strong and the first quarter ended in a draw, but the Panthers tightened up their defense in the second quarter to pull away to a 12 point lead and never looked back as they cruised to a 77-62 playoff win over Osceola High School.  Victor Gray was the MVP of the game with 13 points, 11 rebounds, 4 blocks, 2 steals, and 1 assist.  Chuck Ford led DP with 16 points.  Shane Larkin had 14 points, 6 assists, and 3 steals.  Pat Ryan had 12 points and 5 rebounds.  Damani Cade had a team high 7 assists.  Darius Donaldson chipped in 8 points and 5 rebounds and Tavarus Stevens had 6 points.  The Panthers, ranked #1 in Class 6A and #44 in the ESPN Rise 'Fab 50' improve to 27-2 on the season and advance to the regional semifinal round of the Class 6A playoffs where they will host rival Olympia on Tuesday February 24th at 7:00 pm.  Should be another great one.  Congratulations to the Panthers on their playoff win and good luck on Tuesday against the Titans.

Victor Gray skies for a rebound in the Panthers playoff win over Osceola.

Shane Larkin defends an Osceola player while Victor Gray blocks out.

February 17, 2009 - Dr. Phillips is ranked #1 in the final state poll!  The Florida Sports Writers Association which is made up of both media and coaches released their final Class 6A boys basketball state rankings on Monday and Dr. Phillips moved up to the #1 spot in the poll!  Wow!  The Panthers, who have the best record in Class 6A at 26-2, moved to the top spot based on their win over previously second ranked Olympia and previous number one Boyd Anderson lost in their district final.  The Panthers have certainly earned their way to the top as they are the only school in the Class 6A rankings to defeat 3 other teams in the final 6A rankings.  DP has defeated #4 Olympia, #6 Lakeland, and #8 Winter Park in the final 6A rankings.  DP also defeated #2-3A Jones and #8-3A Williston in the final rankings.  This is the first time ever in school history that the Panthers have finished #1 in the final state poll.  It is the first time since the 2003-04 season that the Panthers have been ranked number 1 at any time.  Congratulations on the honor but all the Panthers know that the games will determine the states best team, but it is nice to be recognized for your hard work.  Chuck Ford is the sole returning starter on this years team.  The Panthers were not included in the preseason top 10 in the state so this years Panthers have exceeded just about everyone's expectations except their own.  Congratulations.  Here is the entire final Class 6A Poll:  1. Dr. Phillips (26-2);  2. Boyd Anderson (25-2);  3. Ely (22-5);  4. Olympia (23-4);  5. Sickles (23-4);  6. Lakeland (22-3);  7. Miami Krop (23-4);  8. Winter Park (23-7);  9. Melbourne (25-2);  10. Winter Springs (20-7).

 2009 Class 6A District 5 Champions - Dr. Phillips 75 - Olympia 71

February 14, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 75  -  Olympia 71.  DISTRICT CHAMPIONS!  Dr. Phillips wins their 7th district championship with a win over the Titans.  It had to be one of the most anticipated of all of the district finals played on Saturday as the third ranked Panthers took on the second ranked Titans for the district 5 - class 6A title.  The game lived up to the billing as the Panthers avenged their previous four point loss to the Titans with a four point win over the Titans for the district championship.  The game was much like the first one.....exciting and tight the whole way.  Olympia jumped out to an early lead and led at the end of the first quarter by a score of 24-17, but the Panthers kept plugging away and went to halftime down four points (37-34).  DP chipped away a little more in the third and finished the quarter trailing by one point (52-51), but the Panthers for the second consecutive evening made the big plays when it counted down the stretch to pull away to the 75-71 win.  Sophomore Shane Larkin was the star of the game with 21 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 2 steals.  His ability to penetrate the defense and make plays was the difference in the game.  Victor Gray had his hands full with Olympia's powerful front line but Victor more than held his own with 16 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and one steal.  Darius Donaldson had 11 points and a team high 8 rebounds.  Junior Pat Ryan had 10 points including the game deciding steal and layup in the final moments.  Chuck Ford had 9 points and 4 assists in his first game back after a suspension.  Junior Damani Cade had 8 points and 3 rebounds in the win.  The Panthers win their second district championship in three seasons over the Titans - both games in 2007 and 2009 were decided by the same score - 75-71.  It is the Panthers 7th district championship in school history.  Dr. Phillips improves to 26-2 on the season and advances to the regional quarterfinal playoff round.  Dr. Phillips will host Kissimmee Osceola High School on Thursday February 19th at 7:00 pm.  Osceola was the runner-up in district 7.  Olympia falls to 23-4 on the season and will travel to take on district 7 winner Melbourne High School on Thursday.  Should both Olympia and Dr. Phillips win on Thursday, they will play a third time at Dr. Phillips in the regional semifinal round of the playoffs.  The Panthers will need to focus on a very good Osceola squad first however.  Congratulations to the Panther team on winning the district championship - they are very difficult to come by especially in the district that the Panthers play in.  Thanks to all of the Panther fans who came out on Valentine's Day to support your Panthers.  Please come out to the 'House of Payne' on Thursday against Osceola.

Pat Ryan looks to pass against Osceola in the playoffs.

 

 

 

 

 

February 13, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 81  -  Ocoee 59.  The Panthers advance to the District Championship Game and qualify for the state playoffs!  The district semifinal is always a tough game with so much riding on the outcome, but the Panthers came through big time with a 35 point fourth quarter to pull away from Ocoee in the 81-59 win.  The game was close through three quarters but Pat Ryan had 10 points in the fourth quarter and Damani Cade had 9 points in the quarter and the Panther defense held Ocoee's best player to 5 points for the game.  Shane Larkin was the game MVP for DP with a game high 23 points and a game high 8 assists.  Damani Cade logged a career high 20 points in the game.  Victor Gray grabbed a career high 15 rebounds and was a crucial inside presence for the Panthers.  Darius Donaldson had a career high 15 points in the win.  Pat Ryan had 12 points and 5 assists.  Tavarus Stevens played one of his best games as a Panther with 9 points and 9 rebounds.  With the win Dr. Phillips advances to the district championship game on Saturday against Olympia.  Game time is 7:00 pm.  The game is at Dr. Phillips.  Olympia is ranked #2 in the state in class 6A and Dr. Phillips is ranked #3 in the state.  There can't be a district final in the state that is as exciting as this one!  DP will be looking to avenge a 65-61 loss to the Titans earlier in the season.  All Panther fans - come out to the 'House of Payne' and cheer on your team to a district championship.  Congrats to the Panthers on making the district final and securing a spot in the Class 6A playoffs which start on Thursday February 19th.


Victor Gray looks to pass in the regional playoff win over Osceola.

February 13, 2009 - DP is ranked #3 in the Orlando Sentinel 'Super 16'.  Today the Orlando Sentinel released their most recent rankings.  The Panthers are at the #3 spot.  They have certainly earned their way to the position.  The Panthers have beaten more teams in the 'Super 16' than any other team in it.  DP has defeated #4 Jones, #6 Winter Park, #8 Ocoee, #9 Oviedo, #12 Evans, #13 Seabreeze, and #16 Timber Creek in the poll!  Great job Panthers!  Good luck in the district semifinals against Ocoee!

February 11, 2009 - The Panthers stay at #3 in the most recent Class 6A rankings.  The Florida Sports Writers Association released their end of the regular season state rankings today and the Panthers stayed at #3 in the state with their impressive 24-2 ranking.  Here is the entire Class 6A rankings:  1. Boyd Anderson (24-1);  2. Olympia (22-3);  3. Dr. Phillips (24-2);  4. Ely (20-5);  5. Sickles (21-4);  6. Lakeland (20-3);  7. Miami Krop (19-4);  8. Winter Park (18-7);  9. Sarasota Riverview (21-4);  10. Melbourne (23-2).  It certainly appears that Region 2, the region the Panthers are in, is by far the most difficult of the four regions.  There are an amazing 5 teams from region 2 in the top 10 in the state - #2 Olympia, #3 Dr. Phillips, #5 Sickles, #6 Lakeland, and #10 Melbourne!  Wow!  Whomever comes out of region 2 will certainly be battle tested!  The Panthers two losses are to #2-6A Olympia and #1-3A American Heritage.  DP owns victories over #6-6A Lakeland, #8-6A Winter Park, #13-4A Bishop Kenny, #3-3A Jones, and #9-3A Williston so far this season.

February 10, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 89  -  West Orange 62.  The Panthers advance to the district semifinal with a win over the Warriors.  Dr. Phillips finished its most successful regular season in school history with a 23-2 record, but it is playoff time now and everyone is 0-0.  The Panthers came out with a lot of intensity and jumped on West Orange early in the district quarterfinal matchup.  DP led 27-14 after the first quarter and never looked back as they cruised to the 89-62 win.  Shane Larkin led the Panthers with 20 points, 5 three's, 9 assists, 3 steals, and 2 rebounds.  Pat Ryan had 18 points and 4 rebounds.  Damani Cade was the stat stuffer on this night with 15 points, 6 assists, 4 steals, 3 rebounds, and 2 blocks.  Victor Gray nearly had a double-double with 14 points and 9 rebounds.  Darius Donaldson had 12 points, 7 rebounds and 5 assists.  All 5 Panther starters scored in double figures which gave DP a very balanced attack on offense.  Tavarus Stevens also contributed 5 points and 5 rebounds.  DP improves to 24-2 on the season and is ranked #3 in the state in the Class 6A poll.  The Panthers advance to the semifinals of the tournament where they will take on the winner of the Ocoee/Apopka game.  Ocoee and Apopka play on Wednesday at 5:30 pm.  The district semifinal game will be on Friday at 8:00 pm.  Congrats to the Panthers on advancing in the tournament and good luck on Friday.  We need the entire 'Panther Nation' at DPs gym on Friday supporting the Panthers in this big game.


Darius Donaldson goes up for two against West Orange.


Shane Larkin had 20 points and 9 assists against West Orange.

February 6, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 67  -  Timber Creek 59.  The Panthers finish out the regular season with the highest single season winning percentage in school history!  DP spoiled Timber Creek's senior night coming away with a hard fought win over the Wolves.  It was a struggle the entire game, but the Panthers made the plays at the end of the game to win.  DP was up 5 after one;  4 at half; and 2 after three before pulling away in the final minutes for the win.  Shane Larkin led the Panthers in scoring with 17 points.  Shane also had 5 assists, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.  Pat Ryan was the stat stuffer on this night with 15 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 5 steals.  Victor Gray had 13 points and 5 rebounds.  Damani Cade had 9 points and three rebounds and Tavarus Stevens contributed 5 points, 2 rebounds, and 2 assists.  The Panthers finish out the regular season with a school record 23-2 record.  DP finishes as the Metro Conference Runner-Up with a 9-1 Metro record.  The Panthers are currently ranked #3 in Class 6A, their highest ranking since DP was ranked #1 in the 2003-04 season.  Congratulations to the Panthers on their phenomenal regular season.  The Panthers play next at home on Tuesday night in the district quarterfinal round of the tournament against West Orange.  Game time is 8:00 pm.  Olympia will play the Wekiva/Edgewater winner before the DP game at 6:00 pm.  Come out to DP and support your Panthers playoff run.
Post Script:  Timber Creek would go on to the regional quarterfinal round of the Class 6A state playoffs.


Andre Swain passes to Shane Larkin.

February 5, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 75  -  Jones 69.  Shane Larkin breaks a school record with 9 steals in DP's win on Senior Night!  The Jones Tigers came into the game with a 22-2 record and a number 3 ranking in Class 3A, but the Panthers led from beginning to end in the big 75-69 win on Senior Night.  Shane Larkin nearly had a triple double with 14 points, 11 assists, and 9 steals.  His 9 steals for the game is a new single game record at Dr. Phillips High School breaking the previous record of 8 in a game held by Chris Warren (Ole Miss).  Congratulations to Shane for entering the DP record book!  The Panthers were ahead for most of the game by 6-10 points but could never put away the very talented and well coached Jones squad.  Look for Jones to make a deep playoff run in class 3A.  Pat Ryan led the Panthers in scoring with 21 points.  Damani Cade has been playing his best ball of the year in the last couple of weeks scoring 17 points and grabbing 4 rebounds.  Victor Gray nearly had a double-double with 12 points and 9 rebounds and Darius Donaldson had 8 points and 5 rebounds for DP.  The Panthers improve their record to 22-2 on the season;  7-1 in the district;  and 9-1 in the Metro Conference.  DP is currently ranked #3 in the state in the class 6A poll and #3 in the Orlando Sentinel 'Sweet 16' poll of all central Florida teams.  The win is the 9th in a row for the Panthers.  Congratulations to the 6 Panther seniors - Tavarus Stevens, Andre Swain, Andy Lin, Darius Donaldson, Victor Gray, and Chuck Ford.  They all have played key roles in the success of the team this year and it was nice to get a quality win over a very good team on their senior night.  The Panthers travel to Timber Creek on Friday to play the Wolves in their final regular season game.  Game time is at 8:00 pm at Timber Creek.  Congrats to the Panthers on the big win.
Post Script:  Jones would go on to finish as the Class 3A state runner-up.

Shane Larkin's 9 steals against Jones set a new all-time DP record for steals in a game.

February 3, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 70  -  Boone 52.  The Panthers cruise against Boone!  Dr. Phillips put their 20-2 record and #3 state ranking on the line against the Boone Braves on Tuesday.  DP came out ready to play and accomplished something that was rather incredible.  DP didn't miss a shot from the floor for the entire first quarter!  The Panthers went a perfect 11 for 11 from the floor to jump out to a 23-15 lead after one.  Unfortunately the Panthers did start to miss but extended their lead to 12 at halftime.  DP led by 23 after three and the entire starting lineup didn't play in the final quarter which gave the bench some quality playing time as the Panthers cruised to the 70-52 win.  Damani Cade led the Panthers with 15 points, 5 rebounds and 3 assists.  Darius Donaldson got the start and played well with 13 points and 3 rebounds.  Pat Ryan had 9 points and 3 rebounds.  Victor Gray nearly logged a double-double with 9 points and 8 rebounds.  Victor was the stat stuffer for the night contributing 4 assists, 3 blocks, and 2 steals as well.  Shane Larkin had 7 points, 4 steals, and 3 rebounds.  Andre Swain had 6 points and 4 rebounds.  Tavarus Stevens added 4 points and 4 rebounds.  All but one Panther scored in the game.  Dr. Phillips improves to 21-2 on the season.  The Panthers play next at home on Thursday February 5 against Jones on Senior night.  It should be a great game.  DP is 21-2 and ranked #3 in 6A and Jones is 22-2 and ranked #3 in 3A.  Wow!  Come out on Thursday and support your Panthers especially the seniors!  Congrats on the win over Boone.


Victor Gray powers up for two against Boone.

February 3, 2009 - The Panthers move up to #3 in the state!  The Florida Sports Writers Association released their most recent Class 6A state poll today and Dr. Phillips has moved up one spot to #3 in the state based on their 20-2 season so far.  The Panthers two losses are to the #1 ranked team in 3A (American Heritage) and the #2 ranked team in 6A (Olympia).  DP has beaten ranked teams Winter Park, Lakeland, Williston, Bishop Kenny, and Savannah, Ga.  DP takes on Jones which is ranked #3 in 3A on Thursday (Senior Night).


Chris Thomas for two.


Victor Gray and Darius Donaldson vs. Ocoee

January 30, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 77  -  East Ridge 61.  The Panthers win their 20th game for the 16th consecutive season - a record in the state of Florida!  East Ridge came into the game in 3rd place in the district behind DP and Olympia, but the Knights couldn't stay with the Panthers for the entire game.  East Ridge jumped out to a fast start leading by one at the end of the first quarter, but DP outscored the Knights 22-13 in the second quarter to take a 40-32 lead at the break.  DP had 8 three pointers in the first half alone against the Knights zone and box and one defenses.  DP won the third quarter by one and then wore down the Knights in the fourth quarter to pull away and win 77-61.  The win is the 20th of the season for the Panthers which continues the state of Florida's longest streak of consecutive 20 win seasons at an amazing 16 years!  Congrats on the awesome accomplishment!  Pat Ryan led DP with 17 points including an amazing 5 for 6 from three point land.  Damani Cade had 16 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists.  Chuck Ford also had 16 points and 6 assists.  Shane Larkin led the Panthers in assists with 10 (a career high) and steals with 4.  Victor Gray and Tavarus Stevens led the Panthers in rebounding with 6.  Darius Donaldson added 8 points and 4 rebounds for DP.  DP finishes off the regular season district record at 7-1 which puts them as the #2 seed in the district tournament Feb. 9-14 at DP.  DP improves to 20-2 on the season.  The Panthers play next on Tuesday February 3rd at home against Boone High School.  Game time is 8:00 pm.  Come out and support your 20-2 and 4th ranked Panthers!

 

 

 

 

 

Pat Ryan had 5 three's and 17 points against East Ridge.

January 30, 2009 - Victor Gray named 2nd team All-State in football.  Congratulations to Panther starting center Victor Gray who was honored today by being named to the Class 6A 2nd Team All-State squad.  Victor will sign a full football scholarship on Wednesday with the University of Central Florida.  Congrats to Victor on the honor and thanks to Victor for playing basketball when he didn't have to and making the hoops squad a lot better!

Victor Gray - 2nd Team All-State - UCF committment in football - Panthers starting center in basketball!

Victor Gray and his mom at his signing ceremony.

January 27, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 87  -  West Orange 68.  The Panthers run past the Warriors.  West Orange came into the game with quality wins over Winter Park and Evans, but they couldn't match the Panthers in this district battle.  DP controlled the game from start to finish leading by 16 after one;  18 after two;  20 after three; and winning by a final of 87-68.  Every Panther received plenty of minutes in this one.  DP was led by Chuck Ford who logged 25 points, 6 assists, 3 steals, and 2 rebounds.  Damani Cade has played back to back great games logging 17 points, 6 rebounds, and 4 steals.  Shane Larkin had a stat stuffing night with 13 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists, and 4 steals.  Victor Gray was a monster on the boards grabbing a season and career high 15 rebounds and scoring 7 points.  Andy Lin contributed 8 points and 7 rebounds in his best performance of the year.  Pat Ryan had 8 points, 4 steals, 3 assists, and 2 rebounds.  Darius Donaldson had 6 points and 5 rebounds in the win.  Dr. Phillips improves to 19-2 overall;  6-1 in the district;  and 9-1 in the Metro Conference.  The win clinches the runner-up spot in the Metro Conference championship race.  The win also clinches the #2 seed for the upcoming district tournament.  Dr. Phillips will play its final district contest of the season before the tournament on Friday at East Ridge High School in Clermont.  Game time is 8:00 pm.  Good luck to the Panthers as they go for their 20th win of the season.


Victor Gray had a career high 15 rebounds against West Orange.

January 24, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 61  -  Winter Park 48.  The Panthers take down the 6th ranked Wildcats.  Winter Park entered Saturday's showdown ranked #6 in Class 6A and was previously ranked in the top 25 in the nation.  The Panthers came into the game ranked #4 in Class 6A, but still the underdog in the minds of many.  Well, DP changed some peoples minds with a dominating 61-48 win over Winter Park.  The Panthers controlled the game from start to finish.  DP led 17-9 at the end of the first quarter and then went on a fantastic run to push the lead to 28-12 before the Wildcats called timeout.  Winter Park cut the Panther lead to 7 at halftime (30-23), but the Panthers dominated the third quarter outscoring WP 19-10 in the third quarter to take a commanding 49-33 lead.  Darius Donaldson played his best game of the year grabbing a team high 8 rebounds and scoring 8 points.  Chuck Ford led DP in scoring with 17 points, 3 rebounds, and 3 assists.  Damani Cade played one of his best games of the year with 15 points, 4 rebounds and 2 steals.  Shane Larkin had 14 points, 4 assists, and 2 steals.  Pat Ryan led the Panthers in assists with 5 and steals with 4.  UCF football commitment Victor Gray had 7 rebounds and great defense on Winter Park's inside players.  The win was probably DP's best of the season.  The team defense was great holding Winter Park's star Austin Rivers to 14 points.  DP improves to 18-2 on the season.  Winter Park falls to 15-5.  Thanks to all the Panther fans that came out to cheer on the guys.  DP plays next on Tuesday January 27 at West Orange at 8:00 pm in another district battle.
Post Script:  Winter Park would go on and advance all the way to the Class 6A Final Four.

Chuck Ford had a team high 17 points in the Panthers big win over 6th ranked Winter Park.

January 21, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 72  -  Colonial 57.  The Panthers win another Metro game.  Dr. Phillips took control of this game early and never let up against the outmatched Colonial squad.  Every Panther played a lot of minutes and all but one Panther scored.  DP led by 6 after one; 11 at the half;  21 after three and cruised home with the 15 point win.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers in scoring with 14 points in limited action.  Shane Larkin had 12 points and 4 assists.  Andre Swain had a career high 10 points and 4 rebounds.  Pat Ryan had 9 points on three 3's.  Andy Lin had six points including an impressive slam in transition.  Darius Donaldson had 6 points and Damani Cade and Victor Gray had four points in the win.  Dr. Phillips improves to 17-2 on the season.  The Panthers have a huge game next at home on Saturday against Winter Park.  The Panthers are currently ranked #4 in the state and Winter Park is currently ranked #6 in the state in the class 6A poll.  It should be a great game.  The varsity game tips off at 7:30 pm.  Come out to the House of Payne and support your Panthers in this big Central Florida matchup of two of its best teams.

Andre Swain had a career high 10 points against Colonial.

January 21, 2009 - The Panthers move up to #4 in the state!  The Florida Sports Writers Association released their most recent poll and Dr. Phillips has moved up two spots to #4 in the Class 6A rankings!  Congratulations Panthers.  Here is the entire poll:  1. Boyd Anderson (18-0);  2. Olympia (14-3);  3. Winter Springs (14-3);  4. Dr. Phillips (16-2);  5. Sickles (14-4);  6. Winter Park (13-4);  7. Ely (13-3);  8. Santaluces (14-1);  9. Lakeland (12-3);  10. Riverview (15-3).

Tavarus Stevens shoots for two against Colonial.

January 20, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 77  -  Ocoee 67.  The Panthers pick up another big district win over the Knights.  The Ocoee Knights were one of just six teams to defeat the Panthers last year and DP wasn't going to let it happen again on this night.  A strong second half was the key in the Panthers 77-67 win over Ocoee.  DP pulled out in front early and had a 10 point lead but Ocoee made a comeback to cut the lead to two at the half.  The third quarter was the key as the Panthers pushed the lead to 10 at the end of the quarter and that would be the final margin as well.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers with a game high 25 points.  Chuck had 3 rebounds, 3 assists, and a team high 3 steals as well.  Shane Larkin had five three's on his way to 19 points.  Shane also contributed 6 assists, 2 steals, and 2 rebounds.  Victor Gray controlled things inside with 15 points and 8 rebounds.  Damani Cade led the Panthers in rebounding with 11 for the game.  Damani also contributed 8 points and 6 assists.  The Panthers improve to 16-2 on the season and raise their district record to 5-1.  DP is currently ranked #4 in the state in Class 6A.  Congratulations to the Panthers on their big district win.  DP plays next on Wednesday against Colonial.  Game time is 8:00 pm.  Come on out to DP and support your Panthers on their quest for their 17th win of the season.

Shane Larkin had 19 points and 6 assists against Ocoee.

January 17, 2009 -  Dr. Phillips 83  -  Seabreeze 70.  Dr. Phillips wins their 15th game of the year over the Sandcrabs.  The Panthers traveled to Bethune Cookman University to take on Seabreeze HS as part of the MLK Challenge.  Seabreeze proved to be a worthy foe, but it was too much Panther power in the second half as DP pulled away to the 83-70 win.  DP led by only two at halftime but took control of the game in the third quarter and cruised to their 15th win of the season against only two losses.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers in scoring with 27 points.  Shane Larkin was the stat stuffer on this night with 8 points, 10 assists, 8 steals, and 2 rebounds.  Pat Ryan kept up his hot shooting pace with 17 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals.  Damani Cade had 9 points, 6 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 blocks.  Darius Donaldson sparked the Panthers coming off the bench with 8 points.  Victor Gray led the Panthers in rebounding with 7 and added 11 points for the game.  The Panthers improve to 15-2 on the season (4-1 in the district).  DP plays next in a big district contest against Ocoee on Tuesday January 20th at 8:00 pm.  Come out to DP and support your Panthers against the Knights.
Post Script:  Seabreeze would advance all the way to the regional semifinal round of the Class 5A state playoffs.

Chuck Ford for three against Colonial.

January 16, 2009  -  Dr. Phillips 77  -  Cypress Creek 53.  DP cruises to a win over the Bears.  Cypress Creek came into the contest with a winning record, but they couldn't match up with the Panthers on this night.  The Panthers led by 8 after one;  13 at the half;  17 after three;  and finished off the Bears by a score of 77-53.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers with 19 points, 4 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals.  Pat Ryan had 18 points and 5 three's in the second half.  Shane Larkin had 10 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals.  Damani Cade had 8 points, and 3 assists.  Darius Donaldson had 7 points.  Andy Lin had 6 points and Tavarus Stevens led the Panthers in rebounds with 6.  The Panthers improve to 14-2 on the season and will take on Seabreeze High School from Daytona Beach in the MLK Challenge at Bethune Cookman University on Saturday at 8:30 pm.  Good luck to the Panthers as they travel to Daytona.

Darius Donaldson passes to Shane Larkin against Ocoee.

January 13, 2009 - The Panthers move up a spot to #6 in the state in the Class 6A poll.  The Florida Sports Writers Association released their most recent state rankings last night and the Panthers are now ranked #6 in the state!  Here is the entire Class 6A rankings:  1. Boyd Anderson (16-0);  2. Olympia (12-2);  3. Winter Springs (13-3);  4. Sickles (13-4);  5. Winter Park (12-3);  6. Dr. Phillips (13-2);  7. Sarasota Riverview (14-2);  8. Blanche Ely (12-3);  9. Santaluces (12-0);  10. Douglas (15-2).  DP has beaten Bishop Kenny (12-2) which is currently ranked #5 in Class 4A and Williston (12-5) which is currently ranked #5 in Class 3A.  The Panthers have upcoming games against #5-6A Winter Park and #3-3A Jones as well.  Congrats to the Panthers on their state ranking.

Victor Gray skies for a rebound against Boone.

January 9, 2009 - Olympia 65  -  Dr. Phillips 61.  The Panthers suffer their first district loss of the season at the hands of the Titans. 
It was a great game and an incredible atmosphere for high school hoops, but the Panthers fell just a few plays short of victory on Friday in front of a packed house.  Olympia jumped out to an early lead and led by ten points in the second quarter at 22-12 before the Panthers took a timeout.  DP stormed back in the final minutes of the quarter to draw within three, trailing 24-21 at the half.  The Panthers came out strong in the third quarter and led by one at 41-40 after three.  The fourth quarter was a classic with the lead changing hands 5 different times.  DP pulled in front for the final time at 51-50 on Shane Larkin's 6th three pointer of the night.  In a close game with two great teams going at it the game usually comes down to one team making just a few more plays down the stretch and on this night it was the Titans who made just a couple more plays in the last minute.  Shane Larkin was spectacular on the night leading all scorers in the game with 22 points including shooting 6 for 8 behind the three point line.  Shane also had 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals.  Damani Cade had his usual stat stuffing line with 10 points, 9 rebounds, 6 assists, 3 steals, and 2 blocks.  Chuck Ford added 14 points, 5 rebounds, 3 assists, and a steal.  Victor Gray did a great job inside on Olympia's big frontline and finished with 11 points and 4 rebounds.  The Panthers, ranked #7 in the state in Class 6A, drop to 13-2 on the season and 4-1 in the district.  The Titans, ranked #2 in Class 6A and #26 in the nation, improve to 12-2 on the season and 5-0 in the district.  The Panthers would like to thank all of the Panther fans that came out and cheered on DP and helped create the incredible atmosphere in the gym.  The players really love to play in that environment.  The Panthers proved that they are deserving of their ranking and indeed one of the best teams in Class 6A.  There are a lot of games to be played, but the Panthers (and probably Titans, too) are hoping for a rematch in the district tournament at Dr. Phillips next month.  The Bright House television viewers certainly weren't disappointed with the great show that both of these fine teams put on.  Congratulations to the Titans.  They were the better team on this night.  The Panthers will go back to work to see if they can't make up just a few points if the two teams play again.  DP next plays at home on Friday January 16 at 7:30 pm against  Cypress Creek.  Panther fans - come out and support your team once again on Friday.
Post Script:  Olympia would go on to finish the season as the Class 6A state runner-up.

Shane Larkin makes one of his six three's on his way to a game high 22 points against Olympia.

January 9, 2009 -  The Panthers and Titans face off in another big match-up!  The Panthers will face their toughest test yet of the season on Friday night as they take on backyard rival Olympia at 'the House of Payne' at 8:00 pm.  The Titans enter the game ranked #2 in Class 6A and #26 in the ESPN/Rise national rankings.  The Panthers come in ranked #7 in Class 6A and number 5 in the Sentinel 'Super 16'.  It should be a great game and a great atmosphere for high school basketball.  The JV game will start at 6:00 pm and the varsity game will be covered live by Bright House Networks at 8:00 pm.  Please make sure to get to the game early as it will be sold out.  Both teams are a perfect 4-0 in the district and the winner has the inside track to the #1 seed in the district tournament played here at DP in February.  Here are the most recent Class 6A state rankings:  1. Boyd Anderson (14-0);  2. Olympia (11-2);  3. Winter Park (11-3);  4. Winter Springs (11-3);  5. Sickles (11-4);  6. Miami Norland (8-3);  7. Dr. Phillips (13-1);  8. Vero Beach (9-4);  9. Sarasota Riverview (12-2);  10. Ely (9-3).

Tavarus Stevens for two against Ocoee.

January 6, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 68  -  Evans 60.  The Panthers notch a big district win over the Trojans. 
Dr. Phillips put on their undefeated district record and 12-1 overall record on the line against a very good Evans team on Tuesday night.  The Panthers jumped out to a 19-15 lead at the end of the first quarter behind two Chuck Ford three's.  The contest remained close throughout the second quarter with the Panthers going to the half with a 36-31 lead.  DP kept a 5-8 point lead for the rest of the game pulling out the 68-60 district win.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers with 18 points and 2 assists.  Pat Ryan had his best game of the year with 15 points, 4 three pointers, 3 rebounds, and 3 steals.  Shane Larkin had 10 points, 3 rebounds and 3 assists.  Damani Cade had a stat stuffing line with 8 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, and 4 steals.  Darius Donaldson provided a spark off the bench with 9 points and 4 rebounds.  The Panthers shooting was good and the difference in the game.  DP improves to 13-1 overall and 4-0 in the district.  It is yet another quality win over a quality team who was ranked #8 in the state in the last poll.  Next the Panthers will take on the #1 team in the last poll, Olympia, on Friday at 8:00 pm at DP.  It will be a backyard battle with two of the best teams in the area.  Should be a great one.  The game is expected to sell out.  Advanced tickets are on sale all week at the front office at Dr. Phillips.  The game will also be televised live by Bright House Networks.  Get to the game early.  It should be another incredible game and incredible atmosphere for a high school basketball game.  Congrats to the Panthers on their big win over Evans and their 13-1 start.

Pat Ryan had 15 points and 4 three's in DP's win over Evans.

January 2, 2009 - Dr. Phillips 74  -  Williston 64.  The Panthers go on the road and defeat a top 10 (3A) Williston squad.  The Williston Red Devils came into the game with a 10-2 record and a state ranking but the Panthers proved to be too much for the scrappy Williston team on this night.  Dr. Phillips jumped out to a 12 point lead to end the first quarter and the lead remained around 10 for most of the game.  The Panthers had control the entire game but never could put away the pesky Red Devils.  It was a quality road win over a good team that hopefully will prepare the Panthers for their two big district games next week.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers with 29 points and a season high 7 rebounds.  Shane Larkin scored 14 points and had a team high 7 assists, along with 4 rebounds and 3 steals on the night.  Pat Ryan was the third Panther in double figures with 12 points and 6 rebounds.  Darius Donaldson led the team in rebounds with 9.  Victor Gray added 7 points and 8 rebounds for the game.  The win improves the Panthers overall record to 12-1 on the season.  DP moved up one spot in the Orlando Sentinel Central Florida rankings to #5.  The Panthers are a perfect 3-0 in the district and have two tough district contests next week.  On Tuesday the Panthers take on Evans High School at home in a big district game that will have big time district seeding implications and on Friday the Panthers take on local rival Olympia, who started the season ranked #1 in the state in class 6A.  The Olympia game will be televised live on Bright House Network.  Both the Evans and Olympia games are at Dr. Phillips next week.  Be sure to come out to DP on Tuesday and Friday and support your 12-1 Panthers hoops squad.
Post Script:  Williston would advance all the way to the regional final round of the Class 3A playoffs. 

Darius Donaldson led DP with 9 rebounds in their road win over #3 Class 3A Williston.

December 30, 2008 -  Dr. Phillips 78  -  Oviedo 64.  DP takes 3rd in the Great Florida Shootout;  Chuck Ford named to the All-Tournament Team.  Dr. Phillips rebounded well from their first loss of the season the day before to soundly defeat Oviedo for 3rd place in the 28th Great Florida Shootout.  The Panthers controlled the game from beginning to end.  DP showed great balance with all five starters scoring in double figures for the game.  DP was ahead by 6 after one;  11 at half;  13 after three;  and finished at 78-64.  Junior Damani Cade led the Panthers with 16 points, 4 rebounds, and 2 steals.  Captain Chuck Ford capped off a great tournament with 15 points, 7 assists, and 3 rebounds.  Chuck Ford was honored by the tournament by making the prestigious all-tournament team.  Chuck has made the all-tournament team in every tournament he has played in the past two seasons.  Wow.  Great job Chuck.  He had 95 points in the four Shootout games.  Junior Pat Ryan had 13 points, 5 rebounds, and a team high 4 steals.  Victor Gray was the game MVP for DP logging yet another double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, 3 steals, and a team high 2 blocks.  There is a nice write up on Victor in the Orlando Sentinel (Dec. 31) on the game.  Sophomore Shane Larkin had a stat stuffing line with 11 points, a team high 8 assists, 5 rebounds, and 2 steals.  Darius Donaldson provided a spark off the bench with 7 points and 4 rebounds.  The Panthers improve to 11-1 on the season (3-0 in the district).  Dr. Phillips hits the road to play Williston High School on Friday January 2nd.  Williston is currently ranked in the top 10 in the state in class 3A and will provide the Panthers yet another tough test.  Good luck to the Panthers and congratulations on your 11-1 start and bringing home the 3rd place trophy in the Shootout.
Post Script:  Oviedo would advance on to the regional quarterfinal round of the Class 6A state playoffs.

Damani Cade led DP with 16 points in the win over Oviedo.

December 29, 2008 -  American Heritage 95  -  Dr. Phillips 74.  Too much Kenny Boynton for the Panthers!  Dr. Phillips fought very hard against a very talented American Heritage team and went to halftime trailing by just 4 points at 31-35, but the second half turned out to be the Kenny Boynton show as he led Heritage to the 21 point victory giving DP their first loss of the season.  Boynton broke the hearts of the Panthers two seasons ago as he scored 35 points in leading Ely HS to a overtime state championship win over the Panthers, and unfortunately for the Panthers Boynton has gotten even better over the years and gave DP 48 points on this night.  We tip our hats to Boynton who is clearly one of the best high school players in the country.  His rankings and accolades are deserved - what an incredible talent!  Chuck Ford was awesome once again leading the Panthers with 30 points.  Chuck has 80 points already for the tournament in just three games.  Shane Larkin hit three 3's on his way to 16 points.  Victor Gray logged his second consecutive double-double with 12 points, 11 rebounds, 2 assists, and 2 steals.  No one else for the Panthers managed double digits in scoring.  The Panthers drop to 10-1 on the season and will play Oviedo High School in the 3rd place game at 7:00 pm on Tuesday at Poinciana High School.  Congrats to Heritage.  They were the better team on this night.  The experience the Panthers are gaining playing all of these high level teams is great.  The two teams DP has defeated in the tournament - Savannah and Lakeland have went on to win all the rest of their games showing that DP definitely has had the toughest draw in the tournament.  Good luck to the Panthers as they try to take 3rd place at 7:00 pm on Tuesday.
Post Script:  American Heritage would advance to the regional semifinal round of the Class 3A state tournament where they lost by two points to eventual state champ Pine Crest.

Chuck Ford led DP with 30 points against American Heritage.

December 27, 2008 -  Dr. Phillips 70  -  Lakeland 60.  Dr. Phillips advances to the semifinal of the Great Florida Shootout with a big win over Lakeland.  Lakeland High School provided the Panthers their second consecutive game against a very good opponent in as many nights.  Lakeland went 24-6 last year and returns 4 starters.  The Panthers only return one starter (Chuck Ford), but DP proved to be too much for Lakeland in the fourth quarter.  It was a hard fought battle with two strong programs going toe to toe for three quarters.  DP was down 3 after 1;  up one at half;  and tied at 40 after three quarters, but it was a huge 4th quarter by the Panthers that made the difference in the game.  Chuck Ford scored 9 of his team high 24 points in the final quarter.  Chuck also had 5 assists and 2 steals.  Victor Gray had 10 of his 11 points in the 4th quarter to key the Panther run.  Victor also had a game high 12 rebounds including 9 in the first half.  Shane Larkin had 13 points, a team high 7 assists, and a team high 4 steals in the effort.  Damani Cade had 11 points and 8 rebounds and a couple of game changing steals.  Darius Donaldson was solid as usual with 7 points and 4 rebounds.  The 4th quarter proved to be the difference in the game.  DP scored 30 points in the quarter and made all of the big plays down the stretch.  Dr. Phillips improves to a perfect 10-0 on the season.  The Panthers advance to the semifinals where they will take on American Heritage School at 8:30 pm.  American Heritage is led by Kenny Boynton who is rated the #3 senior in the entire country and has already committed to the University of Florida.  Some Panthers may remember that it was Boynton who was the difference maker for Ely High School as a sophomore when Ely beat DP for the 2007 state championship.  American Heritage also has guard Ray Taylor who has already signed with Florida Atlantic as well.  It should be another tough test for the Panthers.  Come out to Poinciana HS on Monday at 8:30 pm to watch the big game and congrats to the Panthers on their two quality wins so far in the tournament.
Post Script:  Lakeland would finish the season at 24-4 and advanced to the regional finals in Class 6A.


December 26, 2008 -  Dr. Phillips 66  -  Savannah HS (GA) 60  -  The Panthers notch their best win of the season so far.  The Panthers are the defending Great Florida Shootout champs but they certainly didn't get any favors with their opening round opponent Savannah High School from Savannah, Georgia.  The Blue Jackets finished last season with a 29-3 record, a final four appearance, 18 consecutive wins and a #3 final ranking in Georgia last year.  The Panthers knew they would be in for a battle and the game didn't disappoint.  DP jumped out to an early 13-5 lead in the first quarter where both teams were clearly regaining their form from the holiday break.  DP led at halftime by a score of 30-25.  The game remained tight in the 3rd quarter with DP leading 44-40 after three in a defensive struggle.  The Panthers played their best ball in the 4th quarter extending the lead to 12 and holding on late for the 6 point win over a very talented team.  It was clearly DPs best win of the season so far.  The Panthers were led by Chuck Ford who played a great game.  Chuck had 26 points, 5 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals.  Victor Gray came up big for DP especially in the second half with 12 points and 6 rebounds.  Pat Ryan had three huge 3 pointers on his way to 11 points and 4 rebounds.  Shane Larkin had 9 points, 7 rebounds, 4 assists and 3 steals in the win.  Tavarus Stevens tied Larkin with a team high 7 rebounds.  Chris Thomas and Darius Donaldson both gave the Panthers some great minutes as well.  DP advances in the winners bracket to take on Lakeland High School at 4:00 pm on Saturday.  Lakeland finished last year with a 24-6 record and returns 4 starters from that team so it should be another big time battle for the Panthers, but that is what these holiday tournaments are all about.  Congrats to the Panthers on their big win and good luck against Lakeland.  For more information on the Shootout, visit their website at www.gflso.com.  The Panthers improve to 9-0 on the season and are currently ranked #7 in the state.  Great job Panthers.

Damani Cade vs. West Orange.

December 19, 2008  -  Dr. Phillips 92  -  Bishop Kenny 66.  Dr. Phillips rolls against the 6-1 Crusaders.  Bishop Kenny traveled from Jacksonville to take on the Panthers with a 6-1 record including impressive wins over Jackson and Paxon High School's but the Crusaders could not overcome a smothering second half of Panther basketball.  The first half was a close game with the Panthers going to the break with a 39-34 lead, but the Panthers put on an incredible run in the 3rd quarter.  DP scored an incredible 38 points in the third quarter alone!  Wow!  The Panthers cruised from there to come away with the big win.  Chuck Ford had a game high 31 points as well as 4 steals and 3 assists.  Shane Larkin had 14 points, a game high 8 assists, and 4 steals.  Andy Lin had a career high 10 points.  Damani Cade had his usual stat stuffing line with 9 points, a game high 6 steals, 4 assists, and 3 rebounds.  Chris Thomas led the Panthers in rebounding with 7 and scored 7 points as well.  The win improves the Panthers to 8-0 on the season (3-0 in the district).  The Panthers play next on Friday December 26 at 2:30 pm at Poinciana High School against Savannah High School in the Great Florida Shootout.  Savannah High was 27-2 last season and should provide a big test for the Panthers.  Check out the Great Florida Shootout's website at www.gflso.com to see the tournament brackets and information on all the teams that are participating.  Congrats to the Panthers on their undefeated start of the season.

Pat Ryan against West Orange.

December 18, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 85  -  St. Cloud 46.  DP rolls over the Bulldogs in a non-district matchup.  The Panthers just had too many weapons for the overmatched St. Cloud Bulldogs on this night.  DP put up an impressive 54 points in the first half to lead by 25 and never looked back.  The game went running clock in the third quarter.  Every Panther that dressed out scored in the win.  DP was led by Darius Donaldson with 14 points.  Damani Cade had 13 points, 5 assists, and 5 steals.  Pat Ryan had 13 points, 4 steals, and 3 assists.  Victor Gray had 9 points, Tavarus Stevens 8 points, Andy Lin 8 points, and Shane Larking had 7 points and a team high 6 assists.  Chris Thomas had a team high 8 rebounds in the win.  The Panthers improve to 7-0 on the season (3-0 in the district).  DP plays next on Friday against a 7-1 Bishop Kenny squad from Jacksonville at home.  Game time is 7:30 pm.  It should be a tough test for the Panthers.  Come out to the House of Payne and support your Panthers against the Crusaders.


December 16, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 62  -  Edgewater 52.  The Panthers win their 3rd consecutive road district game over the Eagles.  The Panthers have struggled to pick up a win at Edgewater High School over the years, but DP came through with a big win on Tuesday at the Eagles Nest.  It was a tight game throughout the first half with DP having a 3 point advantage at the end of the first quarter and a two point advantage at halftime, but the Panthers played their best ball in the second half.  DP's defense was effective holding the Eagles to just 52 points.  Chuck Ford led DP with a game high 23 points and 5 assists.  Tavarus Stevens added 11 points and 4 rebounds.  Damani Cade was a stat stuffer with 11 points, a team high 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and a team high 3 steals.  Shane Larkin led the Panthers with 7 assists in his first action of the season.  Any win at Edgewater is a good win.  They don't come easy over there.  The Panthers improve to 6-0 on the season and 3-0 in the district.  All three district wins have been on the road.  DP plays next at home on Thursday December 18th against St. Cloud High School.  The varsity game will start at 8:00 pm.  It's the first home game in nearly a month, so come out to the House of Payne and support your undefeated Panthers.

Damani Cade had 11 points, 9 rebounds, 5 assists, and 3 steals against Edgewater.

December 12, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 71  -  Apopka 62.  The Panthers win another big district road game.  Dr. Phillips faced another tough district opponent on the road in the Apopka Blue Darters on Friday.  The Panthers were shorthanded playing without two starters (Shane Larkin - illness and Victor Gray - football visit) but it didn't matter on this night as the Panthers came up big in the 4th quarter to seal the win.  Chuck Ford led the Panthers with 25 points, 5 rebounds and 4 assists.  Damani Cade had a stat stuffing night with 11 points, 7 rebounds, 7 assists, 6 steals and 2 blocks.  Darius Donaldson played well with 15 points and 7 rebounds.  Pat Ryan contributed 14 points and 4 rebounds as well.  The Panthers were up four at the half and tied at the end of the 3rd quarter but came up huge in the fourth quarter pulling away for the win.  DP improves to 5-0 on the season and 2-0 in the district and are currently ranked #7 in Class 6A and #6 in Central Florida (all classes).  DP plays another tough road district game next on Tuesday December 16th at Edgewater.  Game time is 8:00 pm.  Congrats on the win over Apopka and come out to support the Panthers at Edgewater on Tuesday.


Chuck Ford had 25 points against Apopka.

December 10, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 72  -  Wekiva 62.  The Panthers win their first district game of the season over the Mustangs.  Chuck Ford was on fire scoring 36 points (half of DP's total) in the Panther district road win.  The Panthers found themselves trailing by 7 points at the end of the half and 2 points at the end of the third quarter, but Chuck Ford's penetration and shooting proved to be too much in the decisive quarter.  Chuck went an incredible 12 for 12 from the free throw line in the 4th quarter to seal the win.  Pat Ryan had 14 points, 8 rebounds, and 2 assists and some big plays in the fourth quarter.  Damani Cade had 13 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists, and 2 steals.  The Panthers improve to 4-0 on the season and 1-0 in the district.  DP played well in the second half and showed a lot of character coming back from a deficit on the road in a big district game.  Congratulations on the win.  DP next plays on Friday in another district game at Apopka.  Come out and support the Panthers on Friday.

Chuck Ford had a career high 36 points against Wekiva.

December 9, 2008 - The Panthers move up to #7 in the state in the Class 6A poll!  The Florida Sports Writers Association released their most recent rankings and Dr. Phillips has moved up to #7 in the state in the class 6A poll.  The sports writers moved DP up four spots from the previous poll based on DPs strong showing at the Lyman Greyhound Invitational tournament.  The poll shows what is already known throughout the state - DP plays in the toughest district in Florida with Olympia being ranked 1st and Evans ranked 8th.  Three teams from the same district in the top 8 teams in the state.  Wow!  Here is the complete list of the teams in the Class 6A poll.  1. Olympia;  2. Boyd Anderson;  3. Norland;  4. Winter Springs;  5. Tampa Sickles;  6. Winter Park;  7. Dr. Phillips;  8. Evans;  9. Ely;  10. South Miami.

December 6, 2008 - Dr. Phillips - 73  -  Lyman 38.  The Panthers capture the championship of the Greyhound Invitational with a blowout victory over Lyman!  DP was having to face the defending tournament champions as well as the host school in the Lyman Greyhounds, but it didn't matter on this night.  The Panthers started out a little sluggish, but once again the Panthers put on an impressive run in the second quarter outscoring Lyman by a score of 32-11!  Wow.  The Panthers cruised the rest of the way.  Chuck Ford was named the tournament Most Valuable Player.  He had 17 points in the win.  Pat Ryan was named to the All-Tournament team with an impressive 19 point, 8 rebound, and 7 assist performance.  Damani Cade was also named to the All-Tournament team based on his performance throughout the tournament.  Victor Gray is starting to get back into basketball form coming off of the football field.  He had 7 points and 7 rebounds in the win.  All but one Panther scored in the big win which went running clock in the 4th quarter.  Dr. Phillips improves to 3-0 on the season.  DP plays next on Wednesday night at 8:00 pm at Wekiva High School.  Come out to Wekiva and support the Panthers.

Pat Ryan had 19 points, 8 rebounds, and 7 assists in the Greyhound Invitational Championship win over Lyman.

December 5, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 76  -  Cypress Creek 51.  Senior captain Chuck Ford led the way for the Panthers with 17 points, 7 assists, 2 steals, and 2 rebounds.  Junior guard Pat Ryan had a stat stuffing night with 12 points, 7 assists, and 6 steals.  The difference in the game proved to be the second quarter.  The Panthers outscored the Bears 24-10 in the quarter to extend to a 36-19 halftime lead.  Junior Damani Cade had 14 points, 5 rebounds, and 3 assists.  Darius Donaldson had 10 points and 7 rebounds.  Tavarus Stevens had 8 points and 4 rebounds and Andy Lin contributed 7 points in the win.  Dr. Phillips advances to the championship game where they will take on the host school and defending tournament champions - the Lyman Greyhounds.  Tip off is at 7:00 pm on Saturday.  Come out and cheer on the Panthers in their efforts to bring home the championship trophy.


December 3, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 81  -  Lake Mary 64.  The Panthers roll in their first game at the Greyhound Invitational.  Dr. Phillips opened up their 2008-09 season with a big win over Lake Mary High School in the Greyhound Invitational tournament at Lyman High School.  DP jumped out to a 17-11 first quarter lead then extended the score to 44-25 at halftime and never looked back.  An impressive 27 point second quarter proved to be the difference in the game.  Junior Pat Ryan led the Panthers in points (18), assists (7), and steals (4) in his first varsity start.  Senior captain Chuck Ford had 15 points, 4 steals and 3 rebounds in the win.  Tavarus Stevens had a nice night in his first game as a Panther.  He had 10 points and 7 rebounds as well as a team high 4 blocks.  Andy Lin and Damani Cade both scored 8 in the victory.  The Panthers improve to 1-0 on the season and move on to play Cypress Creek in the semifinal game on Friday at 6:30 pm.  Congrats to DP on their first win of the season.

Pat Ryan had 18 points, 7 assists, and 4 steals against Lake Mary.

November 20, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 68  -  Timber Creek 53.  DP notches another preseason classic win over the Wolves.  Damani Cade nearly logged a quadruple double with 10 points, 10 rebounds, 8 steals and 7 assists in the Panther win over a scrappy Timber Creek squad.  DP led throughout the game but never could put away the Wolves until late in the game.  Chuck Ford had a team high 24 points and 4 assists.  Senior Darius Donaldson came up huge for the Panthers scoring 16 points and grabbing 8 rebounds.  Pat Ryan and Andy Lin each added 6 points in the effort and Tavarus Stevens had 4 points, 3 rebounds, and a team high 3 blocks for the game.  DP will open up their regular season on Wednesday December 3rd at Lyman High School's Greyhound Invitational Tournament against Lake Mary High School.  Congratulations to the Panthers on their preseason classic wins and good luck as the regular season begins.
Post Script:  Timber Creek would advance to the regional quarterfinal round of the playoffs.


Darius Donaldson had 16 points and 8 rebounds against Timber Creek.

November 19, 2008 - Dr. Phillips 91  -  Oviedo 69.  The Panthers win big in the preseason classic.  Despite playing without two starters (Shane Larkin - ill and Victor Gray - football) the other Panthers stepped up their games in an impressive victory over the Oviedo Lions.  Chuck Ford led the assault with 29 points, 5 assists and 0 turnovers including 5 three pointers.  Great game for the Panther point guard.  Pat Ryan finished with 16 points, 8 rebounds, 5 assists and 3 steals.  Damani Cade had a team high 5 steals, 11 points and 5 assists.  Tavarus Stevens added 9 points in his first game as a Panther.  Freshman Isaac Lane had 8 points and Chris Thomas also added 8 points.
Post Script:  Oviedo would advance on to the regional quarterfinal round of the playoffs. 


2008-09 Dr. Phillips Basketball - Season in Review
Nov. 19     DP vs. Oviedo          W     90-69     0-0     Ford - 29 pts
Nov. 20     DP vs. Timber Creek W     68-53     0-0     Ford - 24 pts
Dec. 3       DP vs. Lake Mary     W     81-64     1-0     Ryan - 18 pts
Dec. 5       DP vs. Cypress Creek W     76-51     2-0     Ford - 17 pts
Dec. 6       DP at Lyman               W     73-38    3-0    Ryan - 19 pts
Dec. 10     DP at Wekiva              W     72-62     4-0    Ford - 36 pts
Dec. 12     DP at Apopka              W     71-62     5-0   Ford - 25 pts
Dec. 16     DP at Edgewater          W     62-52     6-0    Ford - 23 pts
Dec. 18     DP vs. St. Cloud          W     85-46     7-0 Donaldson 14
Dec. 19    DP vs. Bishop Kenny    W     92-66    8-0    Ford - 31 pts
Dec. 26    DP vs. Savannah (GA)   W    66-60    9-0    Ford - 26 pts
Dec. 27    DP vs. Lakeland            W     70-60   10-0   Ford - 24 pts
Dec. 29    DP vs. Am. Heritage      L      74-95   10-1   Ford - 30 pts
Dec. 30    DP vs. Oviedo               W      78-64   11-1   Cade - 16 pts
Jan. 2      DP at Williston              W     74-64   12-1    Ford - 29 pts
Jan. 6     DP vs. Evans                   W     68-60   13-1    Ford - 18 pts
Jan. 9      DP vs. Olympia              L      61-65   13-2  Larkin - 22 pts
Jan. 16     DP vs. Cypress Creek    W      77-53   14-2   Ford - 19 pts
Jan. 17     DP vs. Seabreeze           W      83-70    15-2   Ford - 27 pts
Jan. 20     DP vs. Ocoee                 W      77-67    16-2   Ford - 25 pts
Jan. 21     DP vs. Colonial             W      72-57    17-2   Ford - 14 pts
Jan. 24     DP vs. Winter Park       W       61-48    18-2   Ford - 17 pts
Jan. 27     DP at West Orange        W       87-68    19-2   Ford - 25 pts
Jan. 30     DP at East Ridge           W       77-61    20-2  Ryan - 17 pts
Feb. 3      DP vs. Boone                 W       70-52    21-2   Cade - 15 pts
Feb. 5       DP vs. Jones                 W       75-69    22-2  Ryan - 21 pts
Feb. 6       DP at Timber Creek    W        67-59   23-2  Larkin - 17 pts
Feb. 10     DP vs. West Orange     W       89-62   24-2  Larkin - 20 pts
Feb. 13     DP vs. Ocoee               W       81-59   25-2  Larkin - 23 pts
Feb. 14     DP vs. Olympia           W       75-71   26-2  Larkin - 21 pts
Feb. 19     DP vs. Osceola            W       77-62   27-2  Ford - 16 pts
Feb. 24     DP vs. Olympia            L       53-57   27-3   Cade - 15 pts




A Panther team photo on the beach in Hawaii on their trip to the Iolani Prep Classic in Honolulu.


A Panther team photo in front of the capitol building in Washington D.C. on their trip to the Slam Dunk to the Beach Invitational in Deleware.


The Panthers on the USS Arizona Memorial at Pearl Harbor just outside of Honolulu.


The Panthers enjoying the sun on Waikiki beach in Honolulu.


Erick Green, Mark Butler, and Paul DiCicco in front of the Lincoln Memorial on DP's trip to Washington D.C.


I Am A Panther Basketball Student-Athlete
I Am A Winner....This is My Creed!

Panthers and winning will become synonymous terms principally because of my efforts.  Winning will not be automatic; neither will I win by simply wanting to win.

Wanting to win is not enough.  I will become a winner because I realize that any worthwhile endeavor requires personal commitment.  A price must be paid, a price whose currency is hard work, dedication, and sacrifice.

I will become a winner because I have the determination in my heart to pay this price of sweat and tears, and am now proceeding with the necessary daily installments.

I realize that regardless of my talents I have an important contribution to make to my team, and the deeper meaning of being an athlete is my own willingness to make personal sacrifices for the good of my team and teammates.

I deeply believe that regardless of whether I am the least or the greatest athlete on my team, I have an important part to play in my team's success.  Every time I give my best effort on and off the court, in practice and in games, I make my team a better team.  Every time I take it easy and do less than my best, I hurt my team and myself with both my attitude and my actions.

I realize that my team is no stronger than myself.  Therefore, I make the following personal commitment:

I will keep my faith with my God, my teammates, and myself;  and I will pay the price of heat and grime, sweat and fatigue, aches and blisters, so that my teammates may keep faith with me.  I will expect to win, but I will not demand that winning be easy.  I strongly believe that I will be a better man because of this personal commitment and that the world will be a better world because of me.  I will never become a loser, for -


I Am A Winner in the Truest Sense.....
I Am A Panther Basketball Student-Athlete!


The Panthers enjoy a luau on their trip to Hawaii.

A DR. PHILLIPS BASKETBALL PLAYER
A Dr. Phillips basketball player is first of all grateful.  He knows that only a small percentage of young men will ever have the privilege of putting on the Dr. Phillips uniform.  He accepts the fact that he already is a role model, and that he is representing not only himself, but Dr. Phillips High School, his family, and his teammates.  He sees his experiences as s Dr. Phillips basketball player as a mechanism for making his mark on society.  He is confident, yet humble, never allowing his ego to emerge.  He is proud of his strengths and keenly aware of his weaknesses;  therefore, always striving to improve upon his skills.

A Dr. Phillips basketball player is always concerned more with the good of his team.  He realizes that "no man is an island".  Therefore, he appreciates the contributions of each team member, past and present.  He understands that because much has been given to him, much will be demanded of him.  He knows that the challenges of every practice and game will better prepare him for life.  While he is relentless on both ends of the court, he knows that the other team is not his real opponent;  it is the full extent of his own potential that he is always competing against.

A Dr. Phillips basketball player understands that without discipline, true success cannot be achieved.  He appreciates the coach's praise and accepts his criticism, understanding that both are necessary for him to reach his fullest potential.  He is courageous in the face of adversity, has unquestionable integrity, and infectious enthusiasm.  He never allows excused to stand in the way of his responsibilities.  He is always focused, never involving himself with the decisions of officials or the distracting taunts of fans.

A Dr. Phillips basketball player is made and not born.  Therefore, he understands that what he becomes is dependent on his personal commitment to excellence.  As he is always competing to win, he understands that winning will not be the true measure of his success;  it will be how much of himself he has given to the game.  In the end, his personal commitment to excellence, combined with his God-given ability will make him an asset to the game and the world around him.