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SMITHVILLE — The Smithville Tigers varsity girls basketball team pulled off a thrilling 61-60 comeback victory over the La Grange Leopards in their district opener Friday, Jan. 3. The win marks Smithville’s ninth in their last 11 games — well-earned after the Tigers fell behind early, trailing 28-17 in the second quarter.
A three-pointer from senior guard Arabella Gutierrez cut the lead down to eight, but La Grange quickly regained control, building a 38-24 advantage at halftime. The Tigers started their comeback in the third, sparked by a three-pointer and a fast break layup from junior guard Sydnie Brenner, narrowing the gap to 40-33. Gutierrez added another threepointer to bring Smithville within five, 49-44, by the end of the quarter.
In the final minutes, Smithville took the lead when senior guard Chelsea Hendrix hit backto- back three-pointers, giving the Tigers a 55-52 advantage. Brenner sealed the win with a game-clinching steal in the final moments.
Smithville improved to 16-8 overall, 1-0 in district play.
The Tigers return to action against Giddings Jan. 7, and will host Caldwell Friday, Jan. 10, at 6:30 p.m.
