SHEPHERD — There was joy and sadness on Feb. 10 as the Lady Pirates lost 47-31 to Livingston but celebrated the accomplishments of the seniors who dedicated their time and effort to the program.
Once the celebration concluded, it was time for basketball.
The neighboring Livingston Lady Lions were ready from the opening tip, bringing high energy and defensive pressure. Shepherd matched that intensity early, staying within striking distance throughout the first quarter. By halftime, the Lady Pirates trailed 23-14 but remained firmly in contention.
Shepherd opened the second half with a quick 3-0 run, prompting Livingston to call an early timeout to regroup. The Lady Pirates continued to compete and battle on both ends of the floor, but Livingston slowly began to create separation. By the end of the third quarter, the Lady Lions held a 35-24 advantage and maintained control down the stretch to secure a 47-31 victory.
Despite the loss, several seniors made strong contributions in their final home appearance. Da’kiyah Clark led Shepherd with 12 points, going 3-for-4 from the free-throw line and connecting on a three-pointer. Kiona King added 8 points, including two shots from beyond the arc. Jazilyn Richardson contributed 4 points, knocking down two three-point field goals.
At senior night, the gym was filled wall to wall as friends, family, and fans packed the stands to celebrate eight seniors who have helped shape the program. Addison Kowis, Jazilyn Richardson, Kiona King, Da’kiyah Clark, Kaci Roberts, Jaylyn Solorzano, Katelyn Solorzano, and Madison Hickman were honored in a pregame ceremony surrounded by loved ones.
After being in charge the first three quarters, a 2-point fourth quarter doomed the Lady Trojans to a 47-33 road loss to Trinity.
Coldspring outpaced the Lady Tigers throughout ¾ of the game and entered into the fourth quarter with a two-point lead. Trinity opened up under the basket in the fourth, outpacing the Lady Trojans 17-2.
Still, Coldspring ended the regular season with a 6-5 district record (13-18 overall) and a first-round spot against Huntington in the playoffs.
