NIXON — The Cuero Lady Gobblers anticipated a tough match in their Class 4A, Division II semifinal game against Navarro, and they weren’t afraid to meet the challenge head-on. In a game marked by intense rigor, the Lady Gobblers’ tenacious defense and strategic gameplay led them to a decisive 41-23 victory on Friday night at the Nixon-Smiley gym.
With this victory, Cuero boosted their record to 32-6 and secured a spot in the semifinals, where they will compete against Bridge City, who triumphed with a 42-38 win over Hamshire-Fannett.
The semifinal clash is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday at the Merrell Center in Katy.
The game got off to a slow start offensively for both teams, with neither side able to establish a strong scoring rhythm in the first half. The Lady Panthers managed to take an 11-10 lead at the beginning of the second quarter, but Arissa Carbonara’s impressive performance quickly shifted the momentum in Cuero’s favor. Carbonara, who scored a game-high 21 points, made four consecutive baskets, putting Cuero in the lead for good.
Cuero held a 20-14 advantage at halftime and extended their lead to 25-18 in a third quarter where both teams struggled to make field goals. The Lady Gobblers’ defense truly shone as they held Navarro scoreless from the 2:23 mark of the third quarter until there were just over two minutes left in the fourth quarter.
Tegan Harboth led Navarro with nine points, but Cuero’s defensive adjustments and relentless effort proved too much for the Lady Panthers. Coach Crain commended his players’ adaptability, particularly Emeree DaSilva and Mauryana DaSilva, who played crucial roles despite facing foul trouble.
Aubrey Bowles contributed 12 points for the Lady Gobblers, who took advantage of their opportunities at the free-throw line, shooting 29 free throws and converting 15, though Coach Crain expressed some disappointment in their free-throw percentage.
Looking ahead, Cuero’s journey to the regional final promises to be an exciting new experience for the team. As they prepare for their next challenge, the Lady Gobblers will draw on their resilience and determination to continue their winning streak.
Class 4A, Division II Regional Final
Cuero 41, Navarro 23
Points:
Navarro: Tegan Harboth 9, Jillian Baker 3, Madison Gilliam 4, Isabelle Geipel 4, Sarah Falor 3.
Cuero: Aubrey Bowles 12, Arissa Carbonara 21, Mauryana DaSilva 5, Averie Orozco 1, Laelah Mendiola 2.
Halftime: Cuero 20-14
3-pointers: Baker, Falor, DaSilva
Records: Navarro 26-15; Cuero 32-6
Stay tuned for more updates as the Cuero Lady Gobblers continue their pursuit of victory in the regional finals!