Hondo Anvil Herald

Two district losses make things a little tougher for the Owls

 

     Two losses in the past week have thrown a wrench into the Hondo Owls’ postseason plans.

     Hondo’s hopes of grabbing a playoff berth are still very much alive, but the game which could have sewn up a spot got away from the Owls in overtime Tuesday night, Feb. 10.

     In a game which never saw a lead of more than six points for either team all night, Natalia edged the Owls, 78-75 to pull within a game of Hondo in the standings. On Friday, Feb. 6, Hondo stayed within three points of Crystal City at halftime, only to have the Javelinas score 32 points in the third quarter on the way to an 82-45 win. 

     With a season record of 11-21, Hondo is tied with Jourdanton in the league standings at 7-5. The Owls host the Indians on Friday, Feb. 13, before finishing the year in Dilley next Tuesday, Feb. 17.

     Friday in Crystal City, the Javelinas led 30-27 at the half, but owned the second half, 52-18 to turn the final into a 37-point rout. Kolten Alvarez led the team with 13 points, with eight each from Jeremiah Lopez and Lason Estes.

     Tuesday at HHS, the lead changed hands numerous times in the first half. Natalia led the entire third quarter until the Owls tied the game at 52 heading into the fourth. A late 7-0 run by Hondo gave the Owls a 70-69 lead, but the Mustangs hit 1-of-2 free throws to tie the game with 30 seconds left. 

     Both teams turned the ball over with a chance to take the lead in regulation. The Owls had the last opportunity, but a shot at the buzzer bounced off the rim. In overtime, Natalia never trailed, securing the three-point win.

     Josiah Quintanilla led the Owls with 26 points, with 21 from Markel Bradley, 11 from Alvarez and 10 from Lopez.