Yellowjackets defeated by North Lamar

Posted 1/2/25

The visiting North Lamar Panthers used alert defensive work and a multi-faceted offensive scheme to hand Mineola a 51-39 defeat Tuesday, Dec 17.  

The Yellowjackets were undone by …

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Yellowjackets defeated by North Lamar

Posted

The visiting North Lamar Panthers used alert defensive work and a multi-faceted offensive scheme to hand Mineola a 51-39 defeat Tuesday, Dec 17. 

The Yellowjackets were undone by turnovers. They could not shake the propensity to give the ball away – usually in the offensive zone. By quarters, Mineola committed four turnovers in the first quarter, three in the second, three in the third and three in the fourth.

North Lamar capitalized on those missteps to build the winning margin. The Panthers took great advantage throughout the game by scoring after a steal or an intercepted pass. 

Seen from Mineola’s perspective, had they eliminated the giveaways, the game would have likely been dead even. In fact, had the Yellowjackets simply made their free throw attempts, the game would have been a close affair. Unfortunately, the Yellowjacket shooting from the line was lacking. 

Once again, Mineola showed great promise but couldn’t put a whole game together. On the positive side of the ledger, the Jackets made solid defensive adjustments at halftime, dominating the second half boards.     

Additionally, the team is finding shots and not hesitating to take them. Shooting woes, however, continue. 

Shots in close proximity to the basket are simply not falling for the Jackets. What earlier in the season appeared to be just a periodic case of cold shooting has become a lasting phenomenon.

Perhaps the Jackets are trying to change their shots when they are being challenged at the basket, perhaps it is psychological, but it is real. Once Mineola can begin to finish within four feet of the basket, they will turn the season around.

Until they turn that corner, Mineola’s offense will hinge on the production of senior Ainsley Steward. His ability to break open for mid-range jump shots and his accuracy from long range will make him a consistent scorer regardless of the opponent. Steward led Mineola on the night with 13 points.

The Yellowjackets return to their home court on Friday, Jan. 3 when they host Grand Saline.