Lamar downs New Orleans 71-57 in SLC Tournament

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 11, 2024) In an electrifying quarterfinal showdown at the Legacy Center, Lamar University's basketball team emerged victorious, defeating the New Orleans Privateers with a final score of 71-57 at the Southland Conference Championship.

Junior standout Terry Anderson shone bright on the court, leading the charge with an impressive 20-point performance, showcasing his prowess as a key player for the Cardinals.

Throughout the game, Anderson found ample support from his teammates, notably sophomore Cody Pennebaker, who added 13 points to Lamar's tally. Together, they propelled the Cardinals to victory, shooting at a commendable 43 percent from the field.

One of the decisive factors in Lamar's triumph was their exceptional performance at the free throw line, where they converted an impressive 20 out of 21 attempts, demonstrating their precision and composure under pressure. Moreover, the Cardinals capitalized on their rebounding prowess, securing a five-rebound advantage over the Privateers, with 14 crucial offensive rebounds leading to 18 valuable second-chance points.

Despite a strong start from the New Orleans side, Lamar demonstrated resilience and determination, clawing their way back into the game after an initial deficit. The Cardinals' tenacious defense and strategic turnovers ultimately shifted the momentum in their favor, allowing them to seize control and build a substantial lead by halftime.

In the second half, although the Privateers attempted to mount a comeback on several occasions, Lamar's relentless offense and staunch defense proved too formidable to overcome. With less than 16 minutes remaining on the clock, UNO managed to narrow the gap, but Lamar responded swiftly, embarking on a decisive 14-8 run to secure a comfortable lead and clinch the victory.

McNeese State kicks off 2024 SLC Men's Basketball Championship on Tuesday

By Chris Price
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 11, 2024) The No. 1 ranked McNeese State Cowboys kick off their journey in the 2024 Southland Conference Men's Basketball Championship this Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. The Cowboys will face off against No. 4 Lamar Cardinals, who downed No. 8 New Orleans 71-57 on Monday afternoon.

Having clinched the 2024 SLC regular-season championship, McNeese is on a mission to secure its first tournament title in over two decades. This would mark the third overall tournament victory for the team and earn them their third bid to the NCAA Tournament in school history.

The Cowboys have been on fire this season, boasting an impressive 28-3 record, setting a new school record for wins in a single season. Their dominance places them with the second-most regular-season victories in Southland Conference history, just trailing behind Stephen F. Austin's 29 wins in 2013-14.

Within the conference, McNeese has been a force to reckon with, tallying a remarkable 17-1 record. This achievement ties the school record for most league wins in a season, matching their performance from 2000-01 and 2001-02. Furthermore, this places them tied as the second-most in league history, alongside Stephen F. Austin's 18 wins in 2013-14.

Heading into Tuesday's game, McNeese carries a nine-game winning streak, marking the second time this season they have achieved such a feat. This places them among the top teams in the NCAA, with only a select few managing to achieve this level of consistency throughout the season.

Nicholls State overcomes New Orleans in close battle at SLC Championsip

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 11, 2024) In a thrilling showdown at the Southland Conference Tournament, the Nicholls State University women's basketball team showcased their prowess with a solid 73-66 triumph over New Orleans. The game was a rollercoaster ride, with the Colonels trailing at halftime but bouncing back with a vengeance in the second half.

Led by senior guard Kyla Hamilton (Sam Houston HS, Moss Bluff, LA), the Colonels turned up the heat when it mattered most. Hamilton's clutch performance included 18 points, with seven of those crucial points coming in the fourth quarter. She also played a pivotal role on defense, tallying four steals alongside her seven assists and six rebounds.

Mikayla Etienne (Ouachita Parish HS, Monroe, LA) proved to be a game-changer off the bench, lighting up the court with 19 points, including some impressive three-pointers. Lexi Alexander, an All-Southland second team member, delivered a stellar performance with 13 points and 10 rebounds, marking her seventh double-double of the season.

Deonna Brister also made her presence felt with 12 points in the second half, shooting a perfect 4-4 from the field. Her contributions on both ends of the court, including five rebounds and three steals, were instrumental in securing the victory for the Colonels.

Despite a valiant effort from New Orleans, led by Nora Francois and DeArica Pryor, who combined for 41 points, the Privateers couldn't withstand Nicholls State's relentless defense and efficient offense.

This win not only breaks a five-game losing streak against New Orleans but also marks Nicholls State's first postseason victory since 2021. 

Northwester State women's basketball fall to TAMU-Commerce 65-57 in Lake Charles

Photo by Darla S. Tamulitis, La Vita  Loca Photograph Copyright 2024, All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA) (March 10, 2024)  In a thrilling showdown at the Legacy Center, the Texas A&M University-Commerce women's basketball team once again proved their prowess in postseason play, clinching a hard-fought victory over the Northwestern State Lady Demons with a final score of 65-57. This victory marks their seventh consecutive triumph in postseason play, showcasing their resilience and determination on the court.

Under the guidance of first-year coach Valerie King, the Lions have soared to new heights, tying the program record for most wins in a debut season with 14 impressive victories. Their latest win not only propels them into the Southland Conference Tournament quarterfinals for the second consecutive year but also solidifies their dominance over Northwestern State, boasting a perfect 4-0 record against the Lady Demons in away games since last season.

The game itself was a rollercoaster of emotions, with the Lady Demons seizing an early lead before the Lions roared back with a remarkable 13-0 run, fueled by sharp shooting from beyond the arc. Despite a gritty performance from Northwestern State, the Lions maintained their composure, with Mia Deck (shown above) leading the charge with 20 points, supported by Ahmya Boyce, Jordyn Newsome, and Jordyn Beaty, who all contributed double-digit scores.

As the game progressed, both teams battled fiercely, but it was the Lions who ultimately emerged victorious, showcasing their tenacity and teamwork on both ends of the court. Beaty's impressive double-double performance, coupled with Mary Delgado's impactful contributions off the bench, proved pivotal in securing the win for A&M-Commerce.

While Northwestern State fought valiantly until the final buzzer, with standout performances from Jiselle Woodson and Sharna Ayres, they were unable to overcome the Lions' relentless pursuit of victory.

Texas A&M-Commerce tops Northwestern State, 69-64

Photo by
Darla S. Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES,LOUISIANA (March 10, 2024) In a thrilling matchup, the seventh-seeded Texas A&M-Commerce Lions secured a historic win in the first round of the 2024 Jersey Mike's Southland Conference Men's Basketball Championship. They defeated the sixth-seeded Northwestern State Demons with a final score of 69-64.

This victory is significant for the Commerce men's program as it marks their first win in this tournament since joining the SLC last season. With a record of 13-19, the Lions now advance to the quarterfinal round to face third-seeded Nicholls, while the Demons end their season with a 9-23 record.

Leading the charge for Commerce were Kalen Williams, Kwo Agwa, and Tommie Lewis, who each scored in double figures. Williams led the team with 19 points, followed by Agwa with 16 points and Lewis with 15 points.

Despite a strong performance from NSU's Justin Wilson, who scored 20 points and grabbed nine rebounds, the Demons couldn't hold off the Lions' determined effort.

The game saw both teams trading leads throughout, with Commerce making a comeback in the second half. A key moment came when KC Ugwuakazi tied the game at 53-53 with a layup, followed by Khaliq Abdul-Mateen's three-pointer, giving Commerce a crucial lead.

Although the Demons regained the lead late in the game, Commerce rallied back with an 8-0 run in the final minutes, securing the victory. Agwa's clutch play, including a crucial putback, helped seal the win for the Lions.

Both teams showed their strength in the paint, combining for a total of 84 points scored inside. In the end, Commerce's solid defense, including a shot-clock violation forced on the Demons, and their accurate free-throw shooting helped them clinch the win.

New Orleans upsets Southeastern 78-66 in opening game of Southland Conference Tournament

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

LAKE CHARLES, LOUISIANA (March 10, 2024) In a thrilling upset, the No. 8 New Orleans Privateers defeated No. 5 Southeastern 78-66 in the first round of the 2024 Jersey Mike’s Southland Conference Men’s Basketball Championship. It was a game full of twists and turns, but ultimately, New Orleans emerged victorious.

Led by starting guard Jordan Johnson (University of Denver, Memphis, Tennessee, shown above) with an impressive 34-point performance, the Privateers showcased their skills on the court. This win means they advance to the quarterfinals, where they will face off against fourth-seeded Lamar.

Despite Southeastern's efforts, they couldn't overcome New Orleans' tenacity. Southeastern's starting forward Nick Caldwell (Dutchtown HS, Prairie, Louisiana) faced foul trouble throughout the game and eventually fouled out, limiting his impact on the court. Roger McFarlane (Dodge City JC, Fort Lauderdale, Florida) led the Lions with 18 points, but it wasn't enough to secure the win.

The game started with both teams trading runs, but it was New Orleans who finished the first half strong, taking the lead by the score of 39-33, and never trailed in the game. heir defense proved crucial, forcing Southeastern into numerous turnovers.

Though Southeastern made a late push, cutting the lead to eight points, Johnson and the Privateers responded with the determination they showed throughout the entire match, closing out the game with a 13-9 run.

Johnson's performance was exceptional, particularly his clutch three-pointer late in the game, which sealed the victory for New Orleans. 

Houston Dynamo FC fall to New York Red Bulls to kickoff 2024 season

Photo courtesy of Houston Dynamo FC

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (March 3, 2024) Houston Dynamo FC suffered a setback at Shell Energy Stadium last night as they fell 2-1 to the New York Red Bulls, ending their impressive home unbeaten streak in MLS matches that had stood since July 2023. The defeat marks the first loss under head coach Ben Olsen's leadership in nine home matches.

The Dynamo started strong, taking the lead in the seventh minute when midfielder Adalberto Carrasquilla set up forward Aliyu Ibrahim for his first goal of the year. However, the Red Bulls fought back, with Elias Manoel finding the net in the 43rd minute to level the score before Lewis Morgan's strike in the 59th minute secured the victory for the visitors.

Despite the loss, there were moments of promise for Houston. Gabe Segal and Sebastian Kowalczyk came close to finding the net, with Kowalczyk’s effort hitting the post in the 61st minute. Carrasquilla was instrumental in midfield, assisting Ibrahim's goal and nearly scoring himself in the dying minutes of the match.

However, the Dynamo's efforts were not enough to overcome the Red Bulls' determined performance. The visitors capitalized on turnovers and defensive lapses to secure the crucial victory.

The match was not without its moments of tension, as a scuffle broke out in the 63rd minute, resulting in yellow cards for Griffin Dorsey and Frankie Amaya. Despite Houston's late attempts to salvage a point, including a close-range effort from Dorsey in the 89th minute, they were unable to find the equalizer.

Canada takes down Paraguay 4-0 in Concacaf Women's Gold Cup

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

HOUSTON, TEXAS (February 25, 2024) Canada's Adriana Leon scored the hat trick to lead The Canucks to a 4-0 win over Paraguay in the second round of Group Stage C action of the Concacaf Women's Gold Cup at Shell Energy Stadium on Sunday evening.

Leon, who plays for Aston Villa (England) during the club season, started off her scoring onslaught in the 25th minute when she right-footed the ball into the net for the first score of the game. Olivia Smith followed up 10 minutes later to take the score to 2-0 against La Albirroja. Leon added to the Canadian total with two goals in the second half; in the 49th and 56th minute

With the win, Canada moved to 2-0 in the group stage, having defeated 6-0 on Friday night, with Leon scoring two goals in the game and Smith adding one.

Paraguay dropped to 1-1 after today's match beating Costa Rica 1-0 on Friday,

Next up for Canada is a Wednesday, February 28 against Costa Rica with a 5 p.m. start, followed by Paraguay and El Salvador at 8 p.m.

Great Hearts Monte Vista swims to state titles at 4A and under state championships

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography, Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly

Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS (February 16, 2024)  San Antonio Great Hearts Monte Vista showcased their swimming prowess at the UIL Class 4A and under Swimming & Diving State Championships, dominating the competition and leaving a trail of broken records in their wake. Led by standout performances from Averie Hager, Sawyer Stolarczyk, and Jaylee Hager, the Lions secured both the boys' and girls' team titles in impressive fashion.

Sophomore sensation Averie Hager stole the spotlight by setting a new 4A record in the girls 100-yard butterfly with a blistering time of 55.25, highlighting her exceptional talent in the pool. Not to be outdone, Sawyer Stolarczyk, also a sophomore, clinched four gold medals, including breaking meet records in the 200-yard and 100-yard freestyle races. Stolarczyk's electrifying performance in the anchor leg of the 400-yard freestyle relay secured the boys' team title for Great Hearts Monte Vista.

Meanwhile, Jaylee Hager, another sophomore standout, showcased her versatility by winning gold in the 200-yard freestyle and the 100-yard backstroke, setting meet records in both events. The Hager twins' contributions were instrumental in the Lions' success, as they dominated the competition across various events and relays.

In addition to their individual achievements, both the boys' and girls' teams demonstrated remarkable teamwork by sweeping the relay events. The girls set an impressive seven meet records, while the boys broke three state records, solidifying their dominance in the pool.

With stellar performances from Averie Hager, Sawyer Stolarczyk, Jaylee Hager, and the rest of the Great Hearts Monte Vista team, the Lions have firmly established themselves as a force to be reckoned with in Texas high school swimming. Their record-breaking achievements at the state championships serve as a testament to their talent, hard work, and unwavering determination in the pool.

The final results from the meet can be viewed here.

Photos from the meet, by TexSport Publications senior photographer Darla Tamulitis can be viewed here.

Lamar Cardinals dominate Paul Quinn College to close out 2023

Photo by
Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

BEAUMONT, TEXAS (January 30, 2023) In a commanding performance, the Lamar Cardinals showcased their depth and offensive prowess as they ended 2023 with a resounding 91-64 victory over Paul Quinn College on Saturday evening.

The Cardinals' offensive power was evident, with a 47.1 percent shooting accuracy from the field, including eight successful three-pointers. Terry Anderson and Adam Hamilton led the charge with 15 points each. Anderson also secured with a double-double with 10 rebounds in addition to his 15 points.

Lamar had four players finish in double figures, with Ja'Sean Jackson contributing 12 points and Chris Pryor adding 10 to the scoreboard. Lamar's dominance extended to the boards, where they outrebounded Paul Quinn 56-25. Janko Bulijic and Anderson both recorded double-figure rebounds, highlighting Lamar's prowess in controlling the paint.

Key to Lamar's success was their ability to capitalize on second-chance opportunities, amassing 28 points from offensive rebounds. Additionally, the Cardinals capitalized on Paul Quinn's 18 turnovers, converting them into 32 points.

As Lamar shifts its focus to Southland Conference play, they will face Northwestern State in their next matchup on Saturday, January 6 at the Montagne Center, tipping off at 6 p.m.

Denley's last second three-pointer rallies Lamar Cardinals to a 61-58 win over Loyola Marymount.

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vida Loca Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

BEAUMONT, TEXAS (December 30, 2023) Beaumont native Jacei Denley (shown left) showed what she could do in a clutch with a buzzer-beater basket to give the Lamar University women's basketball team a 61-58 victory over Loyola Marymount Lions on Saturday evening. Denley finished as the game's top scorer with 15 points.

The Cardinals fell behind 11-2 in the first quarter. However, Denley, along with Malay McQueen, ignited a three-point barrage, cutting the Lions' lead however, they still maintained an 18-10 lead after the first quarter.

Facing a double-digit halftime deficit, Lamar mounted a turnaround in the third quarter. The Lady Cradinals outscored LMU 16-9, with Akasha Davis, Sabria Dean, and Denley leading the charge. The Cardinals entered the final quarter trailing 43-40.

The closing minutes saw both teams locked in a tight battle score  tied at 58 with 2:01 remaining. Denley's clutch three-pointer gave Lamar a 61-58 lead with just three-tenths of a second left on the clock.

This win propelled Lamar into 2024 with a 6-4 record as they prepare to host UIW on January 4 at 7:00 p.m.

Notre Dame dominates Oregon State in Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl

The Sun Bowl is played at the historic Sun Bowl Stadium in El Paso, Texas.
Photo by Francisco Casillas, Copyright 2023, All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

EL PASO, TEXAS (December 29, 2023) In a spectacular display of skill and dominance, the Notre Dame Fighting Irish claimed a resounding 40-8 victory over the Oregon State Beavers at the 90th Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl at Sun Bowl Stadium. The sold-out crowd of 48,223 witnessed a memorable performance as Notre Dame showcased their prowess in both offensive and defensive aspects of the game. The Fighting Irish, now boasting a 10-3 season record, left no room for doubt about their superiority in the Sun Bowl. Notre Dame's offense, led by freshman quarterback Steven Angeli, executed with precision, amassing an impressive 448 yards. Angeli, in his first career start, set personal bests with 212 passing yards, three touchdown passes, 14 completions, and 18 attempts. Jordan Faison emerged as a standout player, earning the C.M. Hendricks MVP title. Faison's career-high 115 receiving yards, including a remarkable 55-yard reception, propelled Notre Dame to a 32-point victory, marking the largest margin in the program's bowl game history. The Fighting Irish ground game, led by Jadarian Price's career-best 106 rushing yards, was equally formidable. Price's one-yard touchdown run in the second quarter contributed to Notre Dame's 14-0 halftime lead. The Beavers struggled to find their footing, managing only 197 yards of total offense. Defensively, Notre Dame's performance was commendable, recording four sacks and securing a safety in the fourth quarter. The Beavers, despite a valiant effort, couldn't overcome the relentless Irish defense.

Texas A&M falls short against Oklahoma State in thrilling TaxAct Texas Bowl

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Rights

HOUSTON, TEXAS (December 27, 2023) In a heart-pounding battle at NRG Stadium, the Texas A&M football team fought valiantly against No. 22 Oklahoma State, ultimately succumbing to a 31-23 defeat in the TaxAct Texas Bowl on Wednesday night.

The Aggies, entering the game with a depleted roster, faced adversity from the first play when starting quarterback Jaylen Henderson exited the game due to injury. Despite the setback, reserve quarterback Marcel Reed stepped up, showcasing resilience and determination. Reed completed 20-of-33 passes for an impressive 361 yards, adding a rushing touchdown to his name.

Trailing 24-6 at halftime, Texas A&M mounted a spirited comeback in the second half. The defense, led by standout Sam Mathews, forced crucial turnovers, allowing the Aggies to outscore Oklahoma State 17-7 in the final two quarters. Mathews delivered a stellar performance, tallying a career-high 14 tackles, including 1.5 tackles for loss, one pass breakup, and an interception.

Wide receivers Jahdae Walker, Max Wright, and Moose Muhammad III played pivotal roles in the offensive resurgence. Walker led the receiving corps with eight catches for 137 yards, while Wright contributed four catches for 62 yards, and Muhammad III finished with three catches for 68 yards.

Despite falling short, the Aggies displayed resilience and determination. Reed's connection with Wright on a pair of passes set up a 2-yard rushing touchdown by Amari Daniels, narrowing the score to 24-13 in the third quarter. Reed himself contributed a 20-yard rushing touchdown, keeping the Aggies in the fight.

A late-game surge, featuring a 51-yard field goal by Randy Bond, brought Texas A&M within striking distance at 31-28 with 5:07 remaining. The defense held strong, and with 17 seconds left, the Cowboys' 47-yard field goal attempt went wide right, providing the Aggies with one last opportunity.

In a dramatic final sequence, Reed unleashed a Hail Mary pass that unfortunately ended in an interception as time expired. The Aggies, despite the adversity and a depleted roster, showcased determination and fighting spirit until the very last play.

Texas State dominates First Responder Bowl with convincing win over Rice

Photo by Francisco Casillas, Copyright 2023, All Rights Reserved

By Chris Price

Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

DALLAS,TEXAS (December 26, 2023) In a stunning display of defensive prowess and offensive efficiency, the Texas State Bobcats secured an impressive 45-21 victory over the Rice Owls in the SERVPRO First Responder Bowl. Linebacker Brian Holloway emerged as the defensive hero with two interception returns for touchdowns, while Jahmyl Jeter showcased his offensive prowess with three rushing scores.

Texas State's first-year coach, G.J. Kinne, expressed the significance of not just participating in a bowl game but clinching the win. "Going to a bowl game, that’s great. But winning a bowl game, that’s what matters," Kinne emphasized. The victory marked Texas State's first bowl appearance as an FBS program, signaling a promising future for the team.

Holloway, a standout among the 56 transfers on Texas State’s roster, played a pivotal role in the triumph. His two interception returns, covering 36 and 48 yards respectively, turned the tide decisively in Texas State's favor. The game, played at SMU's Gerald J. Ford Stadium, served as a fitting venue for Holloway, who spent his first three college seasons at SMU before transferring to Texas State.

Jahmyl Jeter's stellar performance included a 29-yard touchdown run and two 1-yard rushing scores. The Bobcats' dominance extended to both sides of the ball, with Nash Jones, a 320-pound offensive tackle, even contributing a 3-yard touchdown run.

Rice, despite a valiant effort, faced an uphill battle against the relentless Texas State defense. The Owls fell short of securing their first winning season and bowl victory since 2014. Rice coach Mike Bloomgren acknowledged the impact of turnovers on the outcome, stating, "If you take away the seven turnovers, you probably have a pretty close football game and a chance to win it."

The victory not only marked a successful season finale for Texas State but also showcased the team's potential as a rising force in collegiate football. Coach Kinne expressed optimism, stating, "I feel like when I took the job, everyone talked about the sleeping giant. Well, I think it’s getting ... it’s awake."

Air Force downs James Madison 31-14 in Armed Forces Bowl

Photo and story by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (December 23, 2023) In a thrilling showdown at the Lockheed Martin Armed Forces Bowl, Air Force Falcon football secured an impressive 31-21 win over No. 24 James Madison Dukes. The Falcons capped their 2023 season with a 9-4 record.

The game unfolded as a clash of titans, with Air Force facing the nation's top-ranked rush defense in James Madison, allowing only 62 yards per game. However, the Falcons defied the odds, churning out a remarkable 351 yards on the ground. Senior fullback Emmanuel Michel emerged as the star of the show, setting an Air Force bowl record with an astounding 203 rushing yards on 35 carries, earning him the well-deserved title of Armed Forces Bowl MVP.

Air Force's victory was propelled by a relentless running game and a tenacious defense that tallied four sacks and an interception. Senior linebacker Bo Richter led the defensive charge with three sacks and 4.5 tackles-for-loss, both standing as Air Force bowl records.

The Falcons took control of the game in the second quarter, seizing momentum after linebacker Jonathan Youngblood intercepted James Madison's quarterback Jordan McCloud. Air Force capitalized on the turnover, orchestrating an impressive 72-yard drive culminating in another one-yard touchdown run by Michel. The first half concluded with quarterback Zac Larrier connecting with receiver Jared Roznos for a 42-yard touchdown, establishing a commanding 21-7 lead for the Falcons.

Despite James Madison's efforts to rally in the third quarter, Air Force responded emphatically with a 75-yard touchdown drive, highlighted by Larrier's one-yard plunge, extending their lead to 28-14. The Falcons' dominance was further solidified as Matthew Dapore sealed the victory with a 26-yard field goal, bringing the score to 31-14 with 8:20 left in the game.

James Madison managed to score a late touchdown, but it was not enough to overcome Air Force's performance.

TCU Women’s Basketball makes history with undefeated nonconference stint

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2024 All Rights Reserved

FORT WORTH, TEXAS (December 22, 2023) In a historic feat for TCU Women's Basketball, the team has closed out their nonconference schedule with an undefeated record for the first time in program history. The Frogs delivered a masterclass in both offensive and defensive prowess, capping off this achievement with an emphatic 87-34 victory over Mount St. Mary's.

The defensive showcase was the highlight of the game, as TCU stifled the Mountaineers to a mere 22 percent shooting from the field and a paltry 19.4 percent from beyond the arc. The Frogs exhibited remarkable discipline, committing only three fouls collectively throughout the entire game.

The rebounding battle further underscored TCU's dominance, with the Frogs securing 49 rebounds compared to the Mountaineers' 26. TCU wasted no time asserting their dominance, outscoring Mount St. Mary's 23-5 in a commanding first quarter.

The second quarter witnessed the Frogs extending their lead to 40-14 by halftime, as the Mountaineers struggled to find their footing. TCU continued to tighten their defensive grip in the third quarter, allowing Mount St. Mary's a mere three points while racking up an impressive 31 points of their own.

Leading the charge for the Frogs was Sedona Prince, securing her second consecutive double-double with 22 points on over 80 percent shooting, 15 rebounds, and six assists. Prince's defensive impact was equally noteworthy, contributing three blocks and a steal without committing a single personal foul.

Agnes Emma-Nnopu joined Prince in the double-double club, adding 15 points, ten rebounds, and two crucial blocks. Madison Conner showcased her scoring prowess with 21 points, complemented by three assists and three rebounds. Aaliyah Roberson rounded out the double-figure scorers, contributing 10 points, eight rebounds, and two assists.

Texas Tech Red Raiders dominate California Golden Bears at Independence Bowl

Photo by Darla S Tamulitis, La Vita Loca Photography
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

By Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA (December 17, 2023) In a thrilling showdown at the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl on Saturday night, the Texas Tech Red Raiders emerged victorious, extending their bowl win streak to an impressive three games with a 34-14 win over the California Golden Bears.

Texas Tech quarterback Behren Morton took center stage with an outstanding performance, completing 27 of 43 passes for 256 yards and contributing three pivotal first-half touchdowns. Despite a bumpy start that saw a fumbled opening kickoff leading to an early California touchdown, head coach Joey McGuire rallied his team, displaying determination that defined the Red Raiders' season.

Running back Tahj Brooks played a crucial role, rushing for 98 yards and adding a touchdown, solidifying his reputation as the nation's fourth-leading rusher. The Red Raiders' defense proved instrumental, shutting out the Golden Bears for the final three quarters.

The turning point occurred in the second quarter when Texas Tech, down 14-7, responded with a 93-yard drive culminating in a 27-yard touchdown pass from Morton to Coy Eakin. This marked the beginning of a momentum shift that allowed the Red Raiders to take control of the game.

Cal's freshman quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, displayed resilience despite an injury scare, contributing to the Bears briefly regaining the lead. However, Texas Tech's determined defense prevailed to secure the victory.

Exciting clash in Independence Bowl: Texas Tech faces California in historic showdown

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

SHREVEPORT, LOUISIANA (December 16, 2023)  In a thrilling matchup tonight (December 16), the Texas Tech Red Raiders and California Golden Bears will hit the gridiron for the Radiance Technologies Independence Bowl, marking their second-ever meeting. The lone encounter dates back to the 2004 Holiday Bowl, where Texas Tech secured a 45-31 victory, with current Louisiana Tech head coach Sonny Cumbie shining as the Offensive MVP.

For Cal, this game marks their inaugural appearance in the Independence Bowl, making it their 25th bowl appearance overall. Meanwhile, Texas Tech, participating in their 41st bowl game, aims to break the streak after two previous Independence Bowl defeats in 1986 and 1998.

Texas Tech boasts a commendable 5-4 record in Big 12 play for the second consecutive season, standing as one of only three Big 12 teams with back-to-back winning conference records. Their November victories over ranked teams, Kansas and UCF, showcase their determination.

Cal, after a challenging stretch against ranked opponents, rallied with three consecutive wins, including an impressive 33-7 triumph over bowl-bound UCLA. The clash promises an exciting showdown between two top rushers, with Texas Tech's Tahj Brooks ranking 4th in the FBS and Cal's Jaydn Ott standing 13th.

Cal's defense enters the game with a flair for big plays, leading the nation in fumbles recovered (14) and ranking second in turnovers gained (25). The Golden Bears have proven themselves on the defensive end, with three touchdowns to their name.

As the fifth Pac-12 team in Independence Bowl history, Cal looks to continue the conference's success, while Texas Tech aims to break the Big 12's previous struggles in the bowl.

North Shore rallies to secure a thrilling victory over Atascocita

Story and photo by Robert H Kelly
Copyright 2023 All Rights Reserved

PASADENA, TEXAS (December 2, 2023) In a heart-pounding showdown at Veterans Memorial Stadium, the North Shore Mustangs staged a remarkable comeback to overcome an eight-point halftime deficit and defeated the Atascocita Eagles 34-28 in the UIL Region III-6A Division I final Saturday afternoon. The win marked North Shore's eighth consecutive triumph over Atascocita and extended their overall series lead to 9-2 since 2016.

The game began with a spectacular 61-yard kickoff by North Shore's, Khamani Hudson, pinning Atascocita on its own 2-yard line. However, Atascocita swiftly turned the tables as senior quarterback Zion Brown connected with Jelani Watkins for an electrifying 98-yard touchdown pass, setting the tone for a competitive matchup. Atascocita extended its lead to 14-0 after Cardae Mack's 26-yard TD run late in the first quarter.

Despite facing adversity, North Shore found their rhythm in the second half. Kaleb Bailey, North Shore's quarterback, orchestrated a comeback, connecting with Christopher Barnes for a 55-yard TD pass, narrowing Atascocita's lead to 14-13 early in the third quarter.

North Shore's special teams then came up big, blocking Atascocita's punt and allowing Dezmon Christian to scoop up the ball for a 24-yard touchdown, giving the Mustangs their first lead at 20-14. Hudson continued to shine, this time intercepting a pass and setting up Bailey for a 2-yard TD run, extending North Shore's lead to 27-14.

Bailey's connection with Barnes for a 65-yard TD pass further solidified North Shore's dominance, securing a 34-14 lead with just over seven minutes left in the game. Atascocita, refusing to go down without a fight, staged a late rally as Brown found Cameron Glenn for two touchdown passes, but time ultimately ran out for the Eagles.

Star performances were aplenty, with Barnes securing seven receptions for an impressive 203 yards and two touchdowns for North Shore. On the opposing side, Glenn showcased his skills with seven receptions for 83 yards and two TDs for Atascocita. Christian's momentum-changing play, the 24-yard scoop-and-score in the third quarter, was a crucial highlight for North Shore.