It seems like every year both Columbia Academy basketball teams have some struggles early on while playing an elite schedule before finding their footing in district play, and this season may be very similar.
The Cougars (5-10) likely have a steeper hill to climb this year than in years past, which was evident Saturday at home against Simpson Academy. They got off to a great start in the first half before everything came crashing down in a 65-37 loss.
“We had an excellent quarter-and-a-half,” head coach Dale Watts said. “We did a good job against their defensive pressure — they were in an extended zone — and we were ahead 14-12 at the quarter and it was a two-point game at the half. But we either run out of gas a little bit or the wheels kind of fell off. We didn’t handle the pressure well enough (in the second half).”
Watts said the Cougars are getting better and learning more about what they need to do to compete this season. He added they still have some growing to do to establish their identity, but he sees progress.
What could benefit the Cougars in January and February is no team in their district has separated themselves as the clear-cut favorite, according to Watts.
“I think we can compete in district. I feel pretty good about that,” he said. “I’m optimistic we can district or be in the top two or so.”
The Lady Cougars (9-8) have flashed the same elite ability that led them to a South State title a year ago at times this season, but they have struggled to show it with any consistency. That inconsistency showed up again Saturday as they fell 53-50 in overtime to Simpson.
“They beat us bad at their place, but the girls came out (this time) and really played well. It was a really physical game both ways,” Watts said. “We missed a free throw with 11 seconds to go, and right now making free throws are our nemesis. We were 10-of-28 from the free-throw line. We would’ve won the game running away, but we’ve been struggling on free throws.”
Peyton McCain, who has taken a major leap forward as CA’s No. 1 option offensively, led the Lady Cougars with 17 points while Peyton Rowley added 10.
Watts said the Lady Cougars have put the time in during practice at the charity stripe, but they just haven’t turned the corner yet to knock down the freebies in pressure situations.
While Columbia Academy has the talent to compete on the state level this season, the Lady Cougars will have their hands full in district this year. Watts said Brookhaven Academy, Silliman Institute and Bowling Green are all really good team and all beat Simpson.
“I would say Brookhaven is the best one, then Bowling Green and Silliman, and we’re right there with them. It’s going to be a tough fight in district for the girls,” he said.
Both Columbia Academy squads will return to the court after Christmas in the Copiah Christmas Classic Dec. 27. The Lady Cougars will play first against Hillcrest Christian, followed by the Cougars against Hartfield Academy. It is a three-day tournament that also includes Brookhaven Academy, Warren Central, Hartfield Academy, Parklane Academy, Clinton Christian and Copiah Academy.
