Cougars Rally Late to Knock Off Reedley 69–65
LA Southwest battled back from a halftime deficit and closed strong, using a decisive second half to defeat Reedley 69–65 on Friday afternoon.
|
Reedley came out strong in the opening quarter, knocking down early shots and forcing the Cougars to play from behind. LA Southwest generated good looks but couldn't fully settle into its rhythm offensively, allowing Reedley to take a 21–16 edge after the first period. The second quarter played out evenly, and despite several defensive stands and transition pushes from the Cougars, Reedley held a 36–31 lead at the break. Southwest shifted the game in the third. The Cougars tightened up defensively, contested shots, and began converting consistently in the paint. A stronger tempo and improved spacing helped Southwest outscore Reedley 19–15 in the quarter, bringing the deficit down to a single point entering the fourth. In the final frame, the Cougars made the necessary plays — pushing in transition, finishing through contact, and closing defensive possessions — while holding Reedley to 14 points. A steady late run sealed the comeback and secured the 69–65 win. LA Southwest was led by Rian Dillihunt, who delivered 30 points, six rebounds, and five steals in a standout performance. Kelis Jones added 11 points, three rebounds, and two assists, while Destiny Hurt-Floyd contributed 11 points, five rebounds, five assists, and five steals. LaiLah Whittle finished with nine points, nine rebounds, and four assists, and Emaya Trahan added six points and a game-high 11 rebounds to help the Cougars finish the second-half surge. |
