Lady Rattlers lose close one on Senior Night

By Keilani DeLuna

KTSW Sports Reporter

SAN MARCOS, Texas – The Judson Rockets defeated the San Marcos Lady Rattlers in a close game, 53-51.

The last time these two teams played against each other was Jan. 19, and the Rockets won by six points, 39-33. The Rockets held the Rattlers to only seven points in the first half. This game was very defensive-oriented.

Tonight, at the Snakepit, was the final regular-season game and senior night. Energy from both teams and fans kept this game electrifying. The Rattlers started the game with an easy layup and then two threes from senior Bailey Guzman. The Rattlers were finding ways to execute offensively and continue scoring. By the end of the first quarter, the Rockets’ defense began to heat up.

In the second quarter, the Rockets took the lead, but the Rattlers responded with a clutch three from Ezra Tobias. Kayla King for the Rockets easily kept finding her way to the basket, whether it was going in for a layup or even stepping back and showing off her range, yet she ended the night with 23 points. Halftime ended with a tied score of 26-26.

Both teams came out of halftime ready to play. The Rockets took the lead early in the third, causing the Rattlers to turnover the ball multiple times. Ayleceia Pierson selflessly drove to the basket, making this a close game as the Rattlers trailed by 2. The Rockets finished the game by shooting from the top of the key and making layups.

The Rattlers’ next game will be against the defending state champions, the Clark Cougars.

“Go win; we’re not scared of nobody; if you get into the tournament, you got to play the best sooner or later,” Coach Irvin said. “Our mentality is we get another week to practice, we get another week together, and become one percent better every day.”

The Rattlers look to begin their UIL Playoff run against the Clark Cougars on Tuesday, Feb. 13, at Northside Sports Gym in San Antonio. You can listen to the game on KTSW 89.9 and follow KTSW Sports for live updates.