BADGER TAKES IT TO THE HOOP — Sophomore Jacob Beltran gets fouled on his way to the basket in Bishop’s 78-73 victory over Riviera. (Photos by Fred Salinas) The Bishop Badgers varsity basketball team hosted district rival Riviera this past Tuesday, Feb. 17 in the final district game of the season, emerging with a 78-73 victory to close their regular season record at 16- 12 overall and 9-3 in district play.

The Badgers started quickly, outscoring the Seahawks 23-15 in the opening period.

Riviera continued to play hard, matching the Badgers second period scoring output of 14 points, giving the Badgers an eight point advantage at halftime.

Bishop extended their lead during the third period, outscoring Riviera 19-14 to take a 13 point advantage into the final period.

The Seahawks never gave up, posting 30 points in the closing period to fall short 78-73 against the playoffbound Badgers.

BADGER SOARS OVER SEAHAWKS - Senior A.J. Gaona soars above the competition for two of his game high 19 points. Leading the Badgers was A.J. Gaona with 19 points, nine rebounds, five assists, three steals, and two blocks.

Also contributing to the Bishop victory were Jacob Beltran with 16 points, three rebounds, one steal and one assist; Dave Gonzalez with 14 points, three assists, two steals, and two rebounds; Grant Michalk with 12 points, nine rebounds, four blocks, three assists and one steal; Eric Barrientes with eight points and one steal; Jacob Ortegon with six points and one assist; Daniel Hinojosa with two points, two steals and one rebound; Johnathan Villarreal with one point, two rebounds and two steals; Robert Gaona with three assists and four rebounds; and Brandon Haddy with two rebounds, one steal and one assist.

“We look to use our height as an advantage against the Cowboys,” Bishop Badger Head Coach Mike Suarez said.

The Badgers will head into the bi-district playoff round to face the Cotulla Cowboys at 7 p.m., Tuesday, Feb. 23 in Three Rivers.

Tickets will be $4 for adults and $3 for students, district passes and senior citizen gold cards will be accepted.