The Houston High School girls basketball team struggled offensively Monday (Dec. 23) in the opening round of the 11th Annual Mountain Grove Holiday Tournament against Ava.
After building an early lead, the Lady Tigers trailed 10-7 at the end of the first quarter due to poor decision-making on offense that led to several missed shots and turnovers. The team trailed 21-12 late in the second quarter before scoring 4 straight points to enter the half down 21-16.
After a slow third quarter, play would pick up in the fourth, with Houston increasing its defensive pressure and junior forward Gracyn McNiell sinking two free throws to bring the deficit to within 4 points, 36-32. But the Lady Bears would answer with a 4-0 run to lead 40-32.
Despite high-intensity play late in the fourth quarter from the Lady Tigers, it was too late, losing 43-37.
Leading all scorers was Ava sophomore Jessie Shrable, with 18 points. Senior forward Sophia Crites led Houston with 10 points.
Houston (3-7) continues play Thursday (Dec. 26) in the consolation bracket. Their next home game is Jan. 16 against Mountain Grove.
LADY TIGERS OUTPACED BY NORWOOD
The Houston High School girls basketball team struggled to keep pace with the red-hot Norwood Lady Pirates in a home loss Friday, Dec. 20.
At the end of the first quarter, the Lady Tigers trailed 21-3, managing to make only one free throw and one field goal.
The Lady Pirates didn’t look back, taking a 41-9 lead at halftime before winning the game 68-20.
Two Lady Pirates scored 16 apiece – junior Jayden Chambers and freshman Kalie Chadwell. Senior guard Lacey Cavaness led Houston with 6 points.
