Center Takes District 17, Senior Night Wins Over Carthage

Center Roughriders Gymnasium on February 2, 2021 –

(Photo Album)

The Center Lady Roughriders varsity basketball team held a 16-4 lead at the end of the first quarter over the visiting Carthage Lady Bulldogs on Tuesday. Center still held a 31-14 advantage at the midway break and seemed to be in control of the game and on their way to a lopsided victory.

The Lady Bulldogs played better in the second half and consistently chipped away at Center’s lead. They outpaced the Lady Roughriders 14-11 points in the third period and 20-8 in the final quarter but the Lady ‘Riders held on for a narrow 49-48 win. Amazingly in a game ending this close Carthage never led.

This improved Center’s record to 12-8 overall and their District 17 4A mark is 6-3 with one game remaining. They were led by JaKayla Parks with 19 points. Before the game Seniors JaKayla Parks and Alex Patton were recognized as the teams Senior Night Honorees.

Alyssa Wallace led Carthage with 14 points. The Lady Bulldogs are 4-5 in conference play.

The Center and Carthage varsity boys game was close and heavily contested as well. The game was tied at 16-16 at the end of the first quarter. At halftime Carthage held a narrow 27-26 advantage.

At the end of the third stanza the teams were once again tied, with 43 points apiece.

Center was able to outscore Carthage 20-17 in the final frame to take a 63-60 win home.

Jamarrion Evans led Center with 27 points. Before the contest senior athletes Jermaine Preston Jr., Jake Liker, Marquez Hall, Redd Horace, and Dreyven Emerson were recognized for their contributions within the program.

Carthage was led by Nick Stewart with 22 points.

Center is now 11-9 overall and 5-2 in district action with 3 games left.

Carthage is 9-2 and 6-1 in the conference.

Center will travel to Hudson on Friday, February 5, 2021. Tipoff, at Hornets Gym, will be at 5 p.m. for sub-varsity and varsity play will follow.