Despite big-time scoring outputs from a pair of juniors last week, the Columbia Wildcats dropped their past two games, including a heartbreaking buzzer beater.
After winning their first two district games handily, the Wildcats (9-11, 2-1) were denied a perfect start to region play Jan. 13 at Lawrence County as the Cougars topped Columbia 57-54 on a last-second shot.
Columbia shot the ball exceptionally well in the loss, shooting 47% from the field and 40% from behind the arc. Christain Expose led the way with 22 points on a career-high six 3-pointers to go along with four assists and four steals. Braylon Johnson drained 6-of-12 shots from the field for 14 points.
While the Wildcats had another breakout performance at home Monday, they lost to Class 7A Brandon 71-54. This time it was Bryson Foxworth who caught fire from deep as he splashed four triples en route 25 points, four boards, three steals and two blocks. Johnson added 10 points and three assists, while Tra Lewis chipped in nine points, three rebounds, three steals and two assists.
The Wildcats played host to South Pike Tuesday, but results were unavailable at press time. They will remain at home Friday when rival Poplarville comes to town.
Unlike the boys squad, the Lady Wildcats (11-8, 3-0) managed to put away Lawrence County Jan. 13 in a close game down the stretch. Columbia and the Lady Cougars entered the fourth quarter knotted at 22-22, but the Lady Wildcats went on a fourth-quarter run to secure their third district victory.
The Lady Wildcats similarly played South Pike and will play host to Poplarville on Friday. -
