On Monday night at 6 p.m. at Central A&M High School, the Lady Raiders hosted the Pawnee Indians in a hard-fought girls basketball matchup. Pawnee gave Central A&M a tough battle from start to finish, forcing the Raiders to work for every point. The Indians held strong through all four quarters and pulled away for a 62–42 victory.
First Half:
Pawnee came out of the gate hot, building an early lead and applying heavy defensive pressure on the Raiders’ shot attempts. Central A&M worked to create open looks, but shots were slow to fall. The Lady Raiders were able to capitalize at the free-throw line after drawing shooting fouls, but Pawnee’s defense continued to control the pace. At halftime, Central A&M trailed 35–13.
Second Half:
The Raiders opened the third quarter with renewed energy, knocking down a three-pointer to spark momentum and refocus the team. Central A&M tightened up defensively and moved the ball more effectively, creating better shot opportunities in the third and fourth quarters. With improved ball movement and rising team chemistry, the Lady Raiders cut the deficit to ten late in the fourth quarter.
However, Pawnee responded in the closing minutes with a late run, adding a few key baskets to seal the win. The final score stood at Pawnee 62, Central A&M 42.
The Lady Raiders showed heart and determination throughout the night. While shots didn’t fall consistently and Pawnee dominated on the defensive end and on the boards, Central A&M never stopped competing. The rivalry lives on, and the Raiders will be ready when these two programs meet again, looking for their chance to turn the story in their favor.
— Andrew Lahey
Rheagan Barnes talks after the game
Coach Mitch Chloe talks after the game.