The Washington girls basketball team went toe‑to‑toe with Marian on Friday night, battling through four quarters in a game that stayed tight from the opening tip to the final buzzer. Neither team led by much at any point — every possession mattered, every stop carried weight, and every bucket felt earned. Washington brought intensity on both ends, attacking the rim, knocking down shots in rhythm, and defending with purpose. Marian countered with size and execution, but the Panthers refused to back down, answering runs with runs and keeping the pressure on until the final seconds. In the closing minutes, the game hung within a single possession multiple times. Washington created chances, got key looks, and kept themselves in striking distance, but Marian managed just enough late to escape with the 56–52 win. Even in defeat, the Panthers showed exactly who they are becoming: connected, competitive, and capable of going the distance with strong programs. This one revealed growth, toughness, and a team that’s trending upward with every game.