Lions overcome injuries, illness to win district opener

The Lockhart Lions Varsity Boys Basketball Team opened their District season with a victory at Hays High School in a rare Wednesday afternoon game. The Lions, shorthanded by injuries and illness, only suited up eight players for the district opener.
“I was a little worried about our depth going into the game,” said Coach Glenn Rotzler. “I knew we would have to use som

e timeouts to stay fresh. I also began to worry when fouls started to mount on some of our players.”
John Gonzales fouled out in the contest and Alex Joseph finished the contest with four fouls.
The Lions started a little sluggish defensively, but adjusted and played much better defense in the second half. It was a tight game throughout with the Lions falling behind early, but coming back to hold a slight advantage 17-14 at the end of the first quarter. The second quarter went much like the first and the game was tied up at 33 at the intermission.
Both teams posted 17 points in the third quarter and the game was tied at 50 going into the last frame. The Lions once again fell behind, but showed their character by making a run and retaking the lead, never to relinquish it.
“We made some big free throws down the stretch to extend the lead and keep them from making a late comeback,” Rotzler said. “I was very proud of the fight in our kids. They came back several times in this game and that shows a great deal of character. Winning the District opener on the road is a big win for us!”
Terrance Waldon led all scorers with 23 points. He also added three assists and was 12-14 from the free throw line. John Gonzales added 14 points for the Lions to go along with five rebounds and three steals. Dustin Garza and Michael Schulle added eight points each for the Lions. Garza also had five rebounds and two assists while Schulle had three steals. Other Lions scoring in the game were Kerry Lampkin with seven, Alex Joseph with five, Clayton Parker with three and Calvin Johnson with one. Johnson added six rebounds and an assist. Lampkin added seven rebounds. Joseph led the team in assists with four.
The Lions will take a few days off for Christmas and will return to the hardwood at the Capital City Showdown on Dec. 28-30. The Lions will face off against Canada Academy at Bowie High School on the Dec. 28 at 1 p.m. To begin the New Year, the Lions will return to district play by hosting District favorite and state-ranked New Braunfels Canyon on Tuesday, Jan. 2.
(Courtesy of Glenn Rotzler)