The Hutto Hippos varsity girls’ basketball team fell to the Vandegrift Vipers, 64-54, on Friday, Jan.
3. With the loss, the Hippos dropped to 12-13 overall and 2-6 in district play.
Hutto was competitive early, holding a 17-13 lead at the start of the second quarter.
Junior forward Taylor Hicks and junior center Victoria Escobedo led the charge for the Hippos, trading baskets with the Vipers throughout the period.
However, Vandegrift rallied to take a 32-26 lead into halftime.
Hutto’s offense struggled at the start of the third quarter, allowing the Vipers to go on a 6-0 run and extend their lead to double digits.
The Hippos responded, cutting the deficit to 38-33 after a 2-point field goal from Escobedo and a three-pointer by Hicks.
Despite their efforts, Vandegrift rebuilt its advantage, pushing the score to 55-42 in the fourth quarter.
Hutto made one final push, trimming the lead to 55-51 following a layup from Hicks. However, the Vipers sealed the win with clutch free throws down the stretch.
The Hippos will look to bounce back when they face Vista Ridge on Tuesday, Jan.
7. They will return home to host McNeil on Friday, Jan. 10, at 7 p.m.
