Excellent Defensive Effort Not Enough for the 'Cats

Central jumped out of the gates in the first quarter with several quick buckets to take an early lead. A combination of Kollin Allbright inside and Hayden Schmidt from beyond the arc allowed the ‘Cats to build a 15-11 lead after one. In the second quarter, Keller forced Central into early foul trouble and ended up in the bonus as the ‘Cats neared halftime. Keller scored with less than a second remaining on the clock to tie the game 21-21 at the half.

The ‘Cats struggled early in the third quarter with several turnovers that turned into fast break points for Keller. The Indians took a nine-point lead before the ‘Cats finally got on the board in the second half. Central had several trips to the line in the third quarter that ended with zero points, as misses led to empty possessions. Despite the early struggles, made shots from TK Taylor and Allbright kept the ‘Cats in it entering the fourth quarter.

Christian “Squeaky” English decided to take matters into his own hands in the fourth quarter if the Bobcats were to make a comeback. He scored six straight for the ‘Cats, and Central chipped away at Keller’s lead. Trey Allen hit a three with less than two minutes to play to bring the Bobcats back within four points, but Central ran out of time. The Indians made their free throws when it mattered to beat the Bobcats 46-39.

Although the loss spells the end for the ‘Cats' season in 2024, an area championship was within reach. The Bobcats accomplished much this year, including their first playoff win since 2012, and should be proud of their season. This team should be back bigger and better than ever with several returners next season.