South Plains makes Final Four in NJCAA National Tournament

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The Texans have not faced the easiest route to the semi-finals, their first game was against the No. 1 team in national polls, Vincennes, and then were set to face the No. 2 team in the polls, Connors State.

When tip off began, it took a little while before either team scored.  It was not until about nine minutes into the first half that South Plains started to pick up more energy. It started with back-to-back three-pointers made by Pat Birt, and from there the Texans created a distance between them and Connors.

"I think we had some pretty good individual performances," said Steve Green, head coach for South Plains. "Pat came in and hit a couple shots, [he] drove the ball [and] got aggressive."

As half-time neared, South Plains fans and team rose to their feet after a two-point play byAndre Horne on a fast break. This sent the Texans to the locker room with a 42-33 lead at half.

South Plains never gave up their lead during the game; crashing the boards on both ends more aggressively in the second half. The Cowboys started to pressure the Texans with the attempt to lessen the gap, coming close only a few times.

Leading scores were by Birt with 16 points and Horne with 13. They were some of the players who came off the bench and made some exciting plays.

"It is very comforting sitting there looking at a bench and seeing guys that are as good, waiting their time, as what you have on the floor," said Green.

The semi-final game will be a Lone-Star State showdown between South Plains and Hill College, Friday March 20 at 6:00 pm. Watch it live on www.njcaatv.org or listen on KLVTradio.com.