LA GRANGE – The Taylor Ducks defeated the La Grange Leopards 53-48 Tuesday night on the road to keep themselves in the mix for the last playoff spot.
The Ducks got major contributions from seniors Anthony Cottrill and Conner Cobb with junior Treos Richardson lending a helping hand as well in the winning effort.
The Ducks controlled the game from the opening tip-off and found a rhythm for the offense early in the first quarter. The defense would build off of their offensive momentum and limit the Leopards’ chances by scooping up any rebound that came their way.
With their dominant play to start the game, the Ducks held onto a 14-9 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Ducks would carry that momentum into the second quarter as they continued to build their lead before halftime.
Richardson seemingly could not miss in the first half knocking down contested shots and stepped up when called upon in pivotal moments in the first half. When Richardson did miss one of his shots, Cottrill and Cobb were there to collect the rebound and put it back up to ensure the Ducks offense continued to roll in the first half.
Taylor’s big three led them to a 32-19 lead at halftime, and while they enjoyed the lead, they knew the La Grange would give some push back in the third. The Leopards and Ducks came out in the third quarter looking to seize full control of the game.
The third quarter was a defensive battle with points being scarce, however, that favored the Ducks. The Leopards did outscore the Ducks 10-9 in the third but the Ducks still held onto a 41-29 lead with the final quarter on the horizon.
The fourth saw the Leopards’ offense get their shine as they scored 19 points in the fourth quarter in a lastditch effort to come away with a win on their home court. But the Ducks would be able to respond by putting 12 points on the board to close out the game with a win.
The Ducks are currently tied for the fourth playoff h lle, l is ry l spot with Smithville, and will look to build off of this win to try to grab the final spot.
The Ducks next game will be on their home court Tuesday, Jan. 31, when they go toe-to-toe with the Giddings Buffaloes.
Treos Richardson checks the ball in to a teammate before getting in their offensive set.
Photo By Evan Hale
