Although the non-district schedule has no bearing on Columbia Academy’s primary objective — playing well in district competition to make the playoffs — the Cougars have shown they have a lot of work to do to accomplish that goal after losing nearly 70% of their games so far.
After falling by more than 20 points in the opening round of the Copiah Christmas Classic last week to Hartfield Academy, the Cougars (5-12) struggled even more against Parklane Academy Dec. 29 in a 63-26 loss.
Head coach Dale Watts said the Cougars were simply overmatched in the tournament, especially with having two players out with illnesses.
“You combine having two of my main players out and Parklane just overpowered us. We started off pretty well — I think the score was 6-6 — but after a little while, the wheels kind of fell off,” he said. “They ran away with it, and we just had to play.”
The trio of Hays Carley, Jeffrey Pennington and Will Arinder has led the Cougars this season while Nick Reagan, Gavin Cook and Joseph Hasselvander have come on strong. Watts said Carter Rowell gives the Cougars an added dimension with his elite quickness, which was evident all season on the gridiron, but that he is still trying to find his footing on the hardwood.
“He’s been having a hard time finding the basket. Coming off the grass, he’s had a little difficulty with his shot, but he’ll get there,” Watts said.
Columbia Academy began district play at home Tuesday night against Silliman Institute, but results were unavailable at press time. Watts said last week that although the Cougars have had a tough time in non-district play, he believes they are strong enough to be competitive in district.
The Cougars will play at Bowling Green Friday night in another district showdown before playing host to North Forrest Saturday.
UPDATE: The Cougars defeated Silliman 70-48 Tuesday night.
