Temple lost a key piece of its team just before district play began, its cog in the middle, a four-year starter who provided a physical, intimidating presence in the paint that is difficult to duplicate.

Jamarion Carlton was honored in an emotional pre-game ceremony before his final time suiting up for the Wildcats, when they topped longtime rival Belton 73-65 in front of an electric home crowd Dec. 19.

Shortly thereafter, the 6-foot, 6-inch, 265-pounder moved on to the University of Texas, where he enrolled this month to compete for a spot on the Longhorns’ defensive line after graduating early from high school.