Lions Cruise In Non-District Finale
Monday, February 6th, 2012
Photo by Mike Whatley Jacolby Simpson (#40) led the Lions with 26 points in their win over Neches.
The Lions had five players in double figures, led by sophomore Jacolby Simpson’s 26 points, as the Lions dominated from start to finish.
The Lions jumped on the Tigers early, outscoring Neches 24-10 in the opening quarter. The game wouldn’t be any closer as the Lions continued to pull away throughout the night. The Lions offense kicked things up a gear in the second quarter, outscoring Neches 27-11 to give Lovelady a 51-21 lead at the half.
Things didn’t get better for Neches in the third quarter, despite putting up a game-best 17 points. The Lions would still find themselves leading 69-38 after the third quarter of play. Lovelady would finish the game with a very impressive fourth quarter. The Lions would shut out Neches in the final frame, ending the game on a 15-0 run to seal the 84-38 victory.
Simpson led all scorers with 26 points on the night, and was one of five Lions to reach double figures scoring. Taylor Rich would score 18 points for the Lions in the win, as the junior forward would put in solid minutes in the paint. Jordan Driskell would add 15 points in another strong showing for the senior guard.
Tre Sherman and Taylor Therwhanger added 10 points apiece as the senior duo lit up the Tigers defense throughout the night. Freshman Alfred Simmons rounded out the Lions offensive attack with five points on the night.
Lovelady resumed district play on Friday night when they welcomed the Alto Yellowjackets to town for Senior Night. Lovelady defeated Alto 83-44 in their first meeting in district play, leaving the Lions a win short of a season sweep.
The Lions will wrap up district play on Tuesday, February 7 when they travel to face the Grapeland Sandies. Grapeland is currently a game ahead of Lovelady for first place in district play and defeated Lovelady 62-50 in the first meeting of district play.
For pictures and a complete recap of the Lions home finale, as well as other area basketball news, check back in The Messenger. Also follow The Messenger on Facebook and check out our website at www.messenger-news.com. Chris Boothe can be reached at cboothe@messenger-news.com.
