Leonard, Texas -- A strong second half and last-second heroics helped the Leonard Tigers rally past the Bells Panthers for a three-point win in the District 11-3A opener played Tuesday afternoon at Leonard High School.

Bells controlled the action in the opening moments as the Panthers pulled in front, 16-5, at the first buzzer. That margin looked like it would hold up as Bells led 25-15 at the half and 31-23 going into the fourth quarter.

Leonard began closing in midway through the final period and a triple by Jacoby LaCook cut the Bells lead down to 39-37 with 1:30 left to play.

LaCook was just getting started. He hit a pair of free throws with 37.2 seconds on the clock to tie the game and then drained a three-pointer as time expired to give the Tigers a 42-39 victory in front of their hometown fans.

Leonard will travel to Blue Ridge on Tuesday, January 3, 2025, and Bells will host Pottsboro.

photos by Allen Rich