EDINBURG — The Rio Grande City Rattlers’ season came to an end with a 74-58 loss to Corpus Christi King in the bi-district round of the Class 5A playoffs Monday at Edinburg Vela High School.
The King Mustangs’ length proved a problem for the Rattlers (12-7, 7-3), who were taken out of their offensive groove early before finally finding some rhythm during the fourth quarter.
“We finally played up to our potential in the fourth. We didn’t show up the first half and that really hurt us,” Rio Grande City head coach Juan Aldape said. “I don’t think we hit a single 3 and they hit six. We didn’t hit a 3 until the last quarter, and that’s not who we are.”
King took control out of the gate by outscoring RGC 21-11 during the first quarter, and again to start the second half with a 23-7 third quarter. Forward Cameron Harris led the Mustangs (20-9, 10-6) with a game-high 23 points.
Despite trailing by 15 at the break, Rio Grande City senior guard Dennis Lozano kept his team in the game by scoring 16 of his team-high 19 points during the first half. Lozano repeatedly slashed into the paint and finished through contact against the taller King defense.
The ball finally began to fall for the Rattlers during the fourth quarter, as they outscored the Mustangs 29-14.
RGC junior wing Mikey Compean finished with 13 points, four rebounds, three assists and two steals, while senior guard Eliud Alaniz scored all 12 of his points during the final eight minutes. Senior wing Frank Cantu also had 10 points and four rebounds for the Rattlers.
Aldape said he was proud of the effort his team showed in a unique season, in which the Rattlers work their way back into the postseason after a one-year absence.
“What a roller-coaster ride for everybody. I’m just glad that these seniors were able to have a season and the younger guys, as well,” Aldape said. “I’m happy to be in the playoffs even though we didn’t perform up to par, and I’m happy with these boys’ work ethic.”
Corpus Christi King moves on to face the McAllen High Bulldogs in the area round. McHi (20-7, 12-2) punched its second round ticket by beating Weslaco East 46-31 on Saturday. Time, date and location for the Bulldogs and Mustangs playoff matchup have yet to be determined.