Lions gain momentum at home, show resilience on the road

By Anthony Collins

LPR Editor                           

   The Lockhart Lions boys’ basketball program faced a demanding stretch of district competition last week, hosting Hays High School before traveling to Cedar Park for a tough road matchup. Across both games, the Lions competed at all three levels, highlighted by a key freshman district victory at home and continued signs of growth from the varsity squad.

   Lockhart opened the week at home against Hays, where the freshman team delivered the standout performance of the night. The young Lions played a complete game and executed their game plan from start to finish, earning a 57–50 district win. Making key plays down the stretch, the freshmen held off a determined Hays team to secure the victory. Head coach Collin Hart praised the group’s effort and preparation, crediting Coach Greene for his leadership and in-game execution and expressed excitement about the group’s continued development as district play moves forward.

   The junior varsity Lions battled hard but came up short against a physical Hays team, falling 51–16.

   In the varsity contest, Lockhart showed it could compete with anyone in the district. The Lions played three strong quarters and carried a narrow 42–41 lead into the fourth. However, Hays caught fire from beyond the arc late, pulling away for a 76–48 win. Despite the final score, Hart was encouraged by the Lions’ execution and effort, noting that the next step is sustaining that level of play for a full four quarters. Senior guard DJ Anthony led the Lions with 21 points and eight rebounds, while senior Tyler Kelley added 11 points and two rebounds. Sophomore Zarri Dawson contributed eight points and five rebounds.

   The Lions then hit the road for a challenging district matchup at Cedar Park, where all three levels once again gained valuable experience despite difficult results. The freshman team fell 57–39, followed by the JV squad dropping a 52–34 contest.

   In the varsity game, Lockhart showed grit and resilience while playing shorthanded. The Lions competed hard in the first half and went into the locker room trailing by just 11 points. Cedar Park caught fire in the third quarter, shooting the ball extremely well and extending its lead. Lockhart responded with adjustments and a strong finish, winning the fourth quarter and continuing to fight until the final buzzer. Hart said he was proud of the team’s competitiveness and effort, emphasizing the group’s growth and commitment to improvement.

   DJ Anthony once again led the Lions with 21 points, while freshman Demonte Anthony added seven points. Sophomore Tor Lillemoen chipped in six points, providing energy and effort on both ends of the floor.