There are many key elements which have helped the San Marcos Rattlers move into sole possession of first place in District 25-5A.
Good teamwork, disciplined execution, and the ability come through with clutch shots have helped the Rattlers win five of their six district games.
But the main factor in San Marcos’ recent success is the team’s ability to battle past adversity and putting itself in a position to win or tie the game late. In fact, San Marcos’ largest margin of victory in district was three points (62-59) against New Braunfels, which visits the Snake Pit tonight for a 7 p.m. game.
“These guys have done a great job battling and remaining confident no matter what happens,” SMHS head coach David Norris said. “They have that attitude that they are not going to lose and display the confidence needed to win.”
San Marcos pulled off its latest district thriller Tuesday night, holding off Smithson Valley in overtime 78-77 on the road. Josh Coleman’s free-throw with one second remaining in the extra frame gave the Snakes the win, while Wagner’s victory over Converse-Judson allowed San Marcos take sole possession of first place.
“I don’t know how these guys keep doing it, but they did it again,” SMHS head coach David Norris said. “In my long coaching career, I don’t think I’ve experienced a stretch where we have won so many close ball games. These guys just don’t quit and keep battling.”
New Braunfels is winless in district play after suffering a 57-46 loss to New Braunfels-Canyon Tuesday night. Still, Norris is expecting the Unicorns to give SMHS a strong run considering how tough New Braunfels played the Rattlers in the initial meeting on Jan. 15. That game seemed to be destined for overtime before the Unicorns were flagged with a technical foul after calling for a time out with none remaining.
“I told out guys that New Braunfels is one those teams that can come up and bite you because they haven’t won a district game,” Norris said. “Considering we barely beat them on their home court, I’m sure they will be gunning for us.”
Senior post Alex Frye is the Rattlers’ leading scorer and rebounder, averaging 13.9 points and eight boards per game after scoring 20 at Smithson Valley. He also leads the team with 37 blocked shots.
“Frye has been a monster on the court for us this season,” Norris said. “I still believe he’s the best post player in the district.”
Sophomore guard/forward Aaron Gettys is New Braunfels’ leading scorer, netting 15.2 ppg, while senior guard/forward R.J. Nunez is averaging 8.7 ppg. Gettys scored 21 points in the previous meeting against the Rattlers a few weeks ago.
Tip for tonight’s game is scheduled for 7 p.m. at The Snake Pit.