The Cloudland boys’ basketball team was unable to hold on late Tuesday night.
The ‘Landers dropped a heartbreaking 66-58 decision at University High in District 1-A action. In the girls’ game, Cloudland rolled to a 50-20 win.
For the ‘Landers, it was a great start early.
Cloudland was hot offensively as they rolled to a 29-16 lead at the end of the first quarter. The Bucs were able to limit CHS in the second quarter, but Cloudland maintained a 38-29 advantage at the half.
The third quarter saw a quick UH run tighten up the game, and the teams swapped shots and the lead throughout the quarter. Hayden Shell knocked down a big 3-pointer to give Cloudland a slim lead heading to the final eight minutes.
However, the Bucs got cranking on all cylinders in the final quarter as they outscored CHS 17-7 to pull away for the win.
Hunter Shell had 18 points to lead the way, while Bentley Gilbert finished with 15 points. Elijah Blair had 10 points. Ha. Shell and Conner Birchfield had eight and seven points, respectively.
In the girls’ game, it was all Cloudland.
After the Lady ‘Landers jumped out to a 14-6 first-quarter lead, Cloudland outscored UH 19-3 in the second to take complete control. CHS left no doubt in the third by outscoring the Lady Bucs 13-4.
Mandy Benfield had 14 points to pace all scorers. Jasmine Bircfield had 10 points, while Kenzie Birchfield added six points.
