On KSST Radio and Cable Channel 18’s Saturday Morning Coaches Show, Wildcats Basketball Coach Clark Cipoletta discussed the Wildcats pulse pounding 62-57 Area round win over Midlothian Friday night (February 22) at Forney. A Forney official told Coach Cipoletta Friday was the most packed he had ever seen the gym.
Among difference makers, Coach Cipoletta listed the Wildcats rebounding. There was also the Wildcats free throw shooting (they were 18 of 21 for 85.7%). It was notable that Wildcats post Xavier Cork finished the game despite picking up his fourth foul early in the third quarter.
The Wildcats got off to a good start due to Cork’s scoring near the basket and Keaston Willis’ three point shooting. Coach Cipoletta said the Wildcats can do a much better job on offense. The Wildcats had 6 players that scored in the game and all six scored some points in the fourth quarter. There were two very huge fourth quarter baskets: a Jeremiah Roland three to help stave off a Midlothian run and a good Grayson McClure floater for two that also kept the Panthers at bay.
Midlothian got to within one several times late but could never tie the game or go ahead. Coach Cipoletta said another key to victory was the way the Wildcats got control of those 50-50 balls. He said Sadaidriene Hall also did a good job of finishing inside.
The Wildcats, ranked #4 in Class 5A and 26-8 for the season, now play Lufkin Tuesday at 7 p.m. at the Wagstaff Gym at Tyler Junior College.
