The Alpine Fightin’ Bucks experienced a mix of outcomes in their recent basketball matchups, securing a crucial victory against Monahans while falling to Fort Stockton earlier in the week.
Last Tuesday, the Fightin’ Bucks hosted the Fort Stockton Panthers in a spirited “Battle of Hwy 67” at home. Despite a strong performance, Alpine succumbed to a 77-63 defeat against a well-coached Fort Stockton team that Coach Guana has primed for a potential playoff run. Alpine’s top performers included Ferris Daley with 18 points and 10 rebounds, Dae Hardwick with 16 points, and Isaiah Jimenez who contributed 11 points and 5 steals.
Following the loss, the Fightin’ Bucks traveled to Monahans for a pivotal game on Friday, looking to snap a three-game losing streak. The game started favorably for Alpine, who jumped to an early 7-0 lead. However, Monahans fought back, eventually tying the game at 30-30 by halftime. The contest remained tight, but Alpine’s robust defense in the second half held Monahans to single-digit scoring quarters. The game extended into overtime where Alpine clinched a 55-51 victory. Dae Hardwick starred with a standout 29 points, and Ferris Daley added 13 points, hitting all four of his free throw attempts.
Coach Guana praised his team’s resilience and performance, expressing pride in their toughness and composure. “We needed this win in the worst way,” he said, reflecting on the team’s ability to turn around a challenging start to their season.
The Fightin’ Bucks are now preparing for the upcoming Caprock Classic Tournament, beginning December 26 at Lubbock High School, where they will face Happy in what promises to be an exciting end to the 2024 calendar year.
