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The Rice Raiders now sit with a 3-5 district record after splitting their last two district games.
The Raiders took on Palacios and Industrial in their last two district games coming away with one win and one loss.
@ Palacios, W, 42-39
In their first game, the Raiders hit the road and went south to Palacios to take on the Sharks. The Raiders played a very complete game against the Sharks, and they were rewarded with a district win.
The Raiders had won their two previous games before facing the Sharks, and they came into this game with a lot of confidence. They did all of the little things right to win this game, too.
They rebounded really well and that led to more offensive opportunities, and they made the most of those opportunities. They made smart passes and read the court well, and when they got inside the paint, they made sure to come away with points.
They also had a strong night at the free throw line which had been the Raiders’ kryptonite in some games this season. But against the Sharks, the Raiders handled their business at the free throw line and to say again, they were rewarded with a win.
This was the Raiders’ third win in a row, and they were looking to keep things going against Industrial in their next game to make it four in a row.
Vs. Industrial, L, 44-37 (OT)
The Raiders winning streak came to an end against Industrial but not for lack of trying on the Raiders part. They weathered any early storm from Industrial and worked their way back into the game.
It was a tight defensive game from both teams, so points were scarce in this game, but the Raiders showed their mental toughness. They found a way to get the game to overtime and give themselves a chance to win this game.
The loss keeps the Raiders on the outside looking in as far as the playoffs are concerned. But with plenty of games left on the schedule, the Raiders will remain focused on their goal to make the playoffs as they set their sights on their next district game.
The Raiders will be back in action on Friday, Feb. 6, when they are set for a Colorado County Showdown against the Columbus Cardinals, in Columbus at 7:30 p.m.
