The Albany Lions boys basketball team navigated an unusual midseason pause last week, returning from a nine-day gap between games to earn back-to-back district victories over Stamford and Haskell.

The break began with Albany’s open date on Thursday, Jan. 23, and was extended when winter weather forced the Lions’ scheduled Tuesday game at Stamford to be postponed. Road conditions also limited practice opportunities early in the week, leaving Albany with just one full practice before returning to game action.

Albany’s varsity Lady Lions split a pair of district basketball games last week against Stamford and Haskell, battling limited practice time caused by winter weather, according to coach Ashlyn Bevel.

Albany traveled to Stamford on Jan. 29 for a game originally scheduled Jan. 27, and earned a 44-24 victory despite having only one full practice before the game.

Bevel said the team started slowly but settled in after halftime.

“…and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God?” Micah 6:8

A prolonged Arctic cold front brought dangerous winter weather to Shackelford County last week, leading to school closures, schedule changes and icy travel conditions across Albany and Moran.

Albany ISD announced an early release at noon on Friday, Jan. 23, ahead of the arrival of the winter storm. Classes and all school activities were canceled the following Monday as ice and freezing temperatures moved into the area.