The Cristo Rey Tampa Panthers's recent rough patch got a bit rougher on Monday after their fourth straight loss. They were the victim of a rough 45-19 defeat at the hands of Bishop McLaughlin Catholic. Cristo Rey Tampa lost against Bishop McLaughlin Catholic in their previous head to head back in November, too, but the margin this time around was much wider than the 35-29 score last time.
Aliana Arana was her usual excellent self, almost dropping a triple-double on 23 points, 16 rebounds, and nine steals for Bishop McLaughlin Catholic. Arana set a new season high mark in blocks with seven. Talena McRoberts was another key contributor, scoring two points along with five rebounds and five steals.
Cristo Rey Tampa's defeat was their seventh straight on the road dating back to last season, which bumped their record down to 1-8. That rough patch could be blamed on the team's offensive performance across that stretch, as they only averaged 14.1 points per game. As for Bishop McLaughlin Catholic, their victory ended a 13-game drought at home dating back to last season and bumped them up to 2-7.
Both squads will have to hit the road in their upcoming games. Cristo Rey Tampa will challenge Varsity Opponent at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday. Bishop McLaughlin Catholic will have some time to savor their win since their next game is a little ways off: they'll take on Hernando Christian Academy at 6:00 p.m. on January 4, 2024.
