Apple Springs splits games

TCNS staff

The Eagles won big against Slocum on Jan. 30 by a score of 44-42, but then lost to Neches 66-41 on Friday. 

Head Coach Jeffrey Browning said that the game against Slocum was a big game with playoff implications.  

“A big night from Dakota Campbell and Caden Diaz helped solidify our spot at fourth place in district,” he said.

A strong defensive effort to help hold one of the district’s top scores in check throughout the game, he said.

Top scorers were Campbell with 14 and Diaz with 11.

The game against Neches, also had playoff implications, since Neches needed to win to give themselves a chance at tying Apple Springs for fourth place.

“We couldn’t get into any kind of rhythm the whole game,” Browning said. “Neches shot much better on their home court, and on their senior night.”

Following the loss, Browning said there still is a possibility of the Eagles making the playoffs.

“If we win two of our next three games, we are in the playoffs no matter what,” he said. “If we win out, then we have a chance to possibly force a tie for third with Martinsville; if we win one out of the next three, and Neches wins out, then we would be tied with Neches for fourth; or if Neches loses one of the next three games, then we are in the playoffs no matter what.”

Top scorers against Neches were Zeth Dugat with 13 and Campbell with 10.

Browning said Campbell’s efforts on offense is putting him near the 1,500-point mark for his career, being short 42 points — a goal he possibly could achieve Friday night at home against Martinsville.

Trinity

The Tigers lost two last week, falling to Anderson-Shiro 47-39 on Jan. 30 and to Tarkington 60-46 on Friday.

Head Coach Jacoby Mitchell said there are three games left to finish the season.

“The main message that we have been echoing to our teams is to finish the year strong,” he said.

Centerville

The Bulldogs kept a slim lead throughout the game, but a hot fourth quarter for Kennard gave the Tigers a 59-58 win on Friday.

On Jan. 30, Centerville was outclassed by Wells 85-18.

Girls

Groveton

The Lady Indians traveled to Centerville on Jan. 30 and won 50-48.

Kiki Smith had 26 points, followed by Laney Peterson with 9, and Emma Alexander and Darbi Parker finished with 6 apiece.

On Friday, Groveton played Leon and lost 43-30.

Leading scorers were Kiki Smith with 10 points, followed by Laney Peterson with 7 points, Stormie Hensley with 5, and Darbi Parker with 4.

Trinity

The Lady Tigers lost both games last week, falling to Anderson-Shiro on Jan. 30 and to Tarkington on Friday 48-37.

Head Coach Ashley Sustaita said the girls played hard in both games, with Olivia Mills being the standout on offense and defense.

The Junior High girls finished second in district tournament on Saturday.