With a full season under their belts, the Lucas Lovejoy Leopards' baseball team has punched their ticket to the UIL Baseball State Tournament. In the program's first-ever appearance at the state tournament, Lovejoy is looking to bring home a ring and is willing to do whatever it takes to make that goal a reality for themselves. VYPE DFW takes a look at the team's season so far:
So Far
Starting off the season with several strong non-district victories, the Lovejoy Leopards were able to set the tone of excellence for the year. Defeating tough opponents like Frisco Wakeland, Prosper Walnut Grove, McKinney Boyd, and more, the Leopards used every moment as a learning opportunity to get set for a district schedule that was sure to see not only tough opponents, but opportunities for growth.
Through district play, Lovejoy posted an undefeated 12-0 record and finished the regular season as the top of their district standings. Dylan Sears, Grant Harlan, Kyle Branch, Braden Smith, Reese Ogden, Beau Maddux, Jackson LaTorre, and other athletes played key roles in taking down the likes of Melissa, Greenville, Sherman, Denison, Princeton, Plano East, and more in a dominating fashion; securing their spot in post-season play. In the post-season, the team showed up and showed out against Red Oak, Porter, Hallsville, Frisco, and, most recently, Forney keeping their goal of making it to the state tournament in mind.
What To Expect
With a 29-7-2 overall record, a 78% winning percentage, and having outscored their opponents by over a combined 144 runs this season, the Leopards aren't slowing down as they enter the state tournament. The team is set to take on a tough Magnolia West; who boasts a 26-14-1 overall record and has utilized the art of resiliency to help guide them through the postseason.
Fans can expect Lovejoy to continue on a dominant streak as they look to come out strong early in the game in order to take control and seal the deal; punching their way into the state finals.