The Hutto Hippos varsity boys’ basketball team fell 53-46 to the Vandegrift Vipers on Friday, Jan. 3. The Hippos came up just short of pulling off an upset against the Vipers, who entered the game having won nine of their last 10 contests.
Hutto’s offense struggled early, relying on its defense to keep the game close. The Hippos trailed 10-8 at the end of the first quarter but tied the game following a layup by junior guard Malachi Hillby, who finished with 10 points.
The game remained tight in the second quarter, with Hutto heading into halftime down 24-21. Junior forward Ronald Willis scored five points during the period and led the Hippos with a team-high 12 points.
Coming out of the break, Hillby knocked down a three-pointer to tie the game, but Vandegrift responded with an 8-0 run to take a 32-24 lead. Hutto fought back with a three-pointer by senior guard Jayden James and another layup by Hillby, trimming the deficit to 32-29. However, the Vipers quickly regained control, extending their lead to 41-32.
The Hippos continued to battle late in the fourth quarter, pulling within three points at 49-46 with contributions from senior guards Cylin Tate and Landyn Rosow. Despite their efforts, Hutto couldn’t complete the comeback, as Vandegrift sealed the win with late free throws. Tate finished with 10 points.
The Hippos are looking to turn the season around losing its fourth in five games. Hutto fell to 8-14 overall and 1-5 in district play. The Hippos will be back in action on Jan. 7 versus Vista Ridge before traveling to McNeil on Friday, Jan. 10 at 7 p.m.
