KILLEEN — The Temple Tem-Cats faced a tough defensive battle on Friday evening, dropping a District 12-6A contest to the Killeen Shoemaker Lady Greywolves with a final score of 45-30.
Shoemaker’s high-pressure defense set the tone early, leaving the Tem-Cats fighting to find their rhythm in a challenging road environment.
A Slow Start Proves Costly
The opening half was a struggle for the Temple offense. Shoemaker jumped out to a commanding 15-3 lead in the first quarter and continued to build momentum into the second, outscoring the Tem-Cats 13-4. By halftime, Temple faced a 28-7 deficit.
However, the Tem-Cats showed resilience coming out of the locker room. The second half was a much more even affair, with Temple’s defense tightening up and the shots beginning to fall. Temple actually outscored Shoemaker 23-17 across the final two frames, including a dominant 11-4 run in the fourth quarter, though the early gap proved too large to bridge.
Statistical Breakdown
Tierney Perkins led the offensive charge for the Tem-Cats, finishing as the only player in double digits with 10 points while contributing 5 rebounds and 3 assists. Kendall Tate turned in a versatile performance, nearly reaching a double-double with 6 points and 9 rebounds to go along with a team-high 5 steals. Jayden Faulks added 4 points, while Alanah Johnson dominated the glass with 10 rebounds, 3 points, and a blocked shot.
Rounding out the scoring, Ja’Tiyah Brown, Maciah Morgan, and Jazaeah Canady each chipped in 2 points, while Ja’Marea Wilson added 1 point. The Tem-Cats' defensive effort was bolstered by Aniyah Brumet, who recorded 3 steals, and Ka'Myhria Freeman, who contributed 2 rebounds, a steal, and a block. Aaliyah Paul also remained active on the perimeter, sparking the defense with 2 steals.
Looking Ahead
The Tem-Cats (District 12-6A) will look to bounce back and find the win column as they remain on the road for their next matchup.
Temple travels to face the Bryan Lady Vikings on Tuesday, January 20. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 PM in Bryan.
