Bobcats Drop Defensive Battle in Bi-District Championship

Both teams came out of the gates, struggling to score early. Defense stopped several potential shot opportunities, and when there were shots to be had, most missed the mark. Eastwood took a 10-8 lead headed to the 2nd quarter.

In the 2nd, the 'Cats' shooting struggles continued. Central played better defense than Eastwood, forcing several turnovers, but could not capitalize on the other end of the floor. The Troopers held that same 2-point advantage headed to the locker room at the half, 23-21.

El Paso Eastwood went on a 9-0 run to begin the 3rd quarter. Back-to-back three-point shots and a foul gave the Troopers a serious advantage. However, the 'Cats finally came alive on offense. They used their superior size, mainly TK Taylor and Jax Olson, to score baskets inside near the rim. The 'Cats clawed their way back but still trailed by five points headed to the 4th quarter.

In the 4th ,Central never gave up. Baskets from Squeaky English, Ean McNeil, and Taylor ultimately tied the game at 48-48. English hit what everyone thought was a three to give the 'Cats the lead, but the referees later would say his foot was across the line.

Unfortunately for Central, that is as close as the Bobcats would get to claiming victory. Missed shots down the stretch forced the Bobcats to foul to conserve time on the clock. Eastwood did what all good teams do and hit their free throws to extend the lead back to six points. The Bobcats fell in the end 57-51.

TK Taylor led the Bobcats in scoring on Tuesday with 20 points. English followed close behind with 15 points.

Although not the result San Angelo wanted, this Bobcats' basketball team was incredibly fun to watch. The seniors on this squad will be missed. Central finishes the 2024-25 season with a 24-10 overall record.