The Cuero Lady Gobblers showcased sheer determination and skill as they faced off against the Sinton Lady Pirates and Navarro Lady Panthers in two decisive playoff matchups last week. With the wins, the team moves onto the State Semi-Finals, a first in CHS history for Lady Gobbler basketball.
From the opening tip of the Sinton game on Tuesday, Feb. 18, it was clear that the Cuero Lady Gobblers came prepared to take control early on. Led by standout players, the team executed their game plan. Arissa Carbonara was a force to be reckoned with, tallying 18 points along with 4 steals and 3 blocks.
Aubrey Bowles also made headlines during the game, reaching a significant career milestone by scoring her 1500th point. Bowles contributed 17 points, 5 steals, and 6 blocks, dominating on defense.
”I’m super proud of my team,” Bowles said. “A lot of people doubted us, and didn’t believe we could do it, but we did.”
Her love for the game and the team is evident the entire time on the court.
Mauryana Dasilva also added to the team’s success with 14 points, 7 steals, and 5 assists. Dasilva helped in both scoring and making opportunities for her teammates.
The victory was not just an individual performance, but also highlighted their excellent team effort. The players communicated with one another on and off the court, utilizing their strengths to counter the Pirate defense. Their teamwork was a definite key factor in the win.
With that win under their belt, the Lady Gobblers shifted gears to the next round against the Navarro Lady Panthers. The fan-packed Regional Finals showdown was held at the Nixon-Smiley gym on Friday, Feb. 21.
“Navarro is known for its up-tempo style and disciplined approach to the game,” Coach Amy Crain said.
The first quarter fans witnessed just that, as the Lady Gobblers and Lady Panthers swapped lead changes ending in a 10-8 score. By the second quarter it appeared that the Lady Gobblers had settled into their nerves and began playing their game, pulling the lead at halftime to 6, 20-14.
The standing-room only crowd was electric as the second half began. Cuero ended the third quarter with a 25-18 lead, eventually taking control of the game to a 41-23 victory.
Carbonara had another outstanding game scoring a career high 21 points. Contributing to the victory as well were Bowles with 12 points, Dasilva with 5, Laelah Mendiola closed out with 2 and Averie Orozco chipped in a free throw.
The Lady Gobblers were fast paced and were able to hold the Lady Panthers to 9 points in the entire second half. It was a team defensive effort across the board that was led by Bowles 11 rebounds and Carbonara’s 10.
Cuero's blend of skill, speed, and determination has made them a formidable opponent throughout their playoff run, but their journey is far from over. The Lady Gobblers, now 32-6, will take to the court on Tuesday in Katy, facing Bridge City, who defeated Hamshire Fannett in the regional finals. The game is set to tip off at 5:30 at Leonard E. Merrell Center.
