The first day of the Whataburger Tournament came and gone as teams returned from the holiday break and returned to the hardwood.
A little bit of rust was expected from most tournament teams while the break could mean the stop of the momentum for some as well.
Jim Ned go 2-0 on opening day
The Lady Indians picked up a key victory against Decatur in their second outing of the day, where they utilized their defense en route to the victory.
Leading the way for Jim Ned was Brooke Galvan, who led all scorers with 18 points.
Despite the loss, Decatur shot 90 percent from the free-throw line and will be a key point for the Lady Eagles moving forward.
Look out for Bridgeport
If anyone made the impression of the tournament, it would go to the Siessies. Bridgeport picked up two statement wins against Bowie and Brock in convincing fashion that may have surprised fans. First year coach Jordan Sarten, who came over from Frisco Liberty after being an assistant under current head coach Ross Reedy, has the Sissies playing well with athletic post players in sister duo Zoe and Jade Hall.
Emily Vidal also made her presence known with her long-range shooting ability.
If 8-4A couldn’t get any better, the toughest district in 4A may have improved more in comparison to last year.
Holiday hangover?
For some teams, it was a day to forget with some trying to find their footing from the holiday break. UIL mandated a five day no play during the break and for girls basketball, you will never know what you will get on the court after a five vday break.
Tidbits
Teams that took part in the state tournament went 4-6. (Panhandle, Nazareth, Grapeland, Wall, Dodd City)
Ponder coach Jim Avery picked up his 800th career win against Idalou
Decatur lost their first game of the season (snapped a 20-game winning streak)
Games to watch on Day 2
Championship Bracket
Decatur vs. Grapeland
If you are a fan of fast-paced basketball and high scoring, this is the game for you. Grapeland is more of a balanced tempo team but can keep up when in a run-and-gun situation. For Decatur, the defense, defensive boards and their size will be key in order to pick up a bounce back victory.
Idalou vs. Bridgeport
Both teams have the size but which team has the better defense? That will be the main question being asked as the main battle will be in the interior.
The guard battle will also be one to watch as LCU signee Shaylee Stovall will matchup with Emily Vidal.
Jim Ned
Keep an eye on Jim Ned in both games, no matter how they fare in their semifinal against Argyle Liberty Christian. This is a team that graduated the bulk of the offensive production last year and head coach Hunter Cooley has the Lady Indians playing solid ball so far.
