Three wins over the course of two days allowed the Lehman Lobo boys basketball team to claim third place overall at the Oilman’s Classic Tournament in Midland last week.
Steven Pinchback, Lehman High head coach, said the tournament was a key stepping stone for his program as the team continue to progress before district play.
“They have been stepping up and showing up and they are getting it,” Pinchback said. “The light bulb is clicking, so it’s good to get out there to get that reaffirmed.”
Leading the way for the Lobos was T.J. Jefferson and Kenny Henderson, who were both named as all tournament selections.
However, Pinchback said multiple players, including many of the younger athletes, contributed to the team’s success. That list included Oscar Montalvo and Marcos Cantu.
Lehman opened tournament play with a bang Dec. 7 by clobbering Big Spring 100-39. Pinchback said it was a groundbreaking moment for the program to surpass 100 points, which players estimated may not have been done in some time.
“It’s good to see them reach that, you could tell it was pretty important to them. Just goes to show the work is paying off,” Pinchback said. “But you can’t be complacent. You have to fight and be humble. As easy as you score 100 points, someone can do the same on you.”
Lehman followed by defeating host Midland Lee, but then succumbed to El Paso Eastlake in the final day of pool play.
The Lobos closed the tournament with a slim 61-57 win over Amarillo Caprock.
Pinchback said he was pleased with the team’s ability to see different styles of play in the tournament.
“The main thing was to get away and make some memories together,” Pinchback said.
Now the Lobos begin final preparations before starting their rigorous district schedule. Lehman opens district with road games at Vista Ridge on Dec. 22 and at Vandegrift on Jan. 3.
“We are going to put our hard hat on and work hard,” Pinchback said. “You have to put in the work and there are no shortcuts.”
