The Grayson Vikings faced a double digit deficit in the second half, and nearly erased it, but their rally fell just short in a 73-66 loss to Temple on Wednesday, Jan. 15.
The Vikings were off and running early on in this one. Kevin Paul Jr went to work in the post for a layup in the opening moments of the game. Jayden Garces capped an 8-2 run to open the game with a three. The Viking offense continue their hot start, as Josh Barlow made it 14-4 with a three of his own. 
Temple outscored Grayson 10-6 over the next few minutes, but a tough layup from Croix Cox over two defenders put the Vikings back up by eight points. Nic Anthony was good on a step back three to put Grayson back up by double digits, but Temple went on a 14-4 run of their own to take a 33-30 lead. Caleb Alcineus tied it at 33 with a long three, but Temple scored six of the final nine points to take a three point lead at 39-36 into the locker room at half.
In the second half, Temple began on a 19-3 run to take a 58-39 lead. The Vikings continued clawing back and pulled within nine, but wasn't enough as Temple took home the victory.
Anthony led the charge with 21 points, while Barlow added 11 points. Paul Jr and Cox each had near double-doubles; 10 points and nine rebounds for Paul Jr, while Cox had eight points and 10 rebounds.
With the women playing Cisco, the Viking men will take a bye on Saturday, with Cisco not fielding a men's team.
The Viking men will return to action next Wednesday, Jan. 22 traveling to McLennan. Tip-off is set for 7pm.