OWLS FINISH HISTORIC SEASON: Smith County Falls In Class 2A Semifinals To Westview, 47-37

By Michael Lindsay

The Smith County Owls (24-12) wrapped up their historic season on Friday as they fell to Westview in the Class 2A state tournament semifinals, 47-37.

“I thought we had the right game plan,” said Smith County head coach Layne Bussell. “I thought we had good looks and just ran out of gas. Their physicality gave us a lot of issues by the time it was the fourth quarter, but I thought we were right there and had a good opportunity. I’m proud of my guys and thankful to be an Owl.”

Cooper Williams led the Owls with 21 points on 10-16 shooting followed by 6 points each from Cohen Rigsby and Lucas Cornwell.

Westview opened the game on a 6-0 run in the first 2 minutes of the contest before the Owls settled in to lead 12-11 entering the second period.

“The game plan was to value possessions and not get sped up,” said Bussell. “We were really patient and had 30 and 45-second possessions. We weathered that first early storm.”

Smith County led by as many as 7 points (18-11) midway through the quarter before Westview battled back within 4 points (20-16) at halftime.

The Owls held their lead until the 0:54 mark of the third period when a Westview jumper gave the Chargers a 31-30 lead entering the fourth quarter. Westview never looked back in the fourth quarter as they led by as many as 12 points (44-32) en route to a 47-37 victory.

For Smith County, the state semifinal finish is the deepest run in program history and the Owls return all five starters entering next season.

“It’s been a really special ride,” said Bussell. “I’ve had some coaching colleagues tell me there’s guys that work to do this their entire career and they never get that opportunity. I’m very lucky to be where I am. We get everybody back and get opportunity to do it again. Nothing’s guaranteed and we’ve have to earn it again, though.”