The Bossier Parish Community College Cavaliers pushed Paris Junior College to the brink in a physical, back-and-forth conference showdown before dropping an 88-81 decision Wednesday night at home.

The Cavaliers delivered a strong opening punch, controlling the tempo early and taking a 43-37 lead into halftime. BPCC executed on both ends of the floor in the first half, attacking the rim, knocking down perimeter shots, and defending with energy to build separation. BPCC maintained that momentum into the second half, carrying the lead as both teams traded scoring runs. The contest turned into a back-and-forth battle midway through the period, with the lead exchanging hands multiple times in the final 10 minutes. The Cavaliers kept the score knotted until just under the three-minute mark, but Paris capitalized on key possessions down the stretch to secure the win.

“We had numerous chances to push out our leads and pull away,” said Head Coach Jeff Moore following the game. “After playing so well last week, [tonight] was on me for not having our guys ready to play. Huge credit to Paris — they played steady the whole game and won the toughness battle. They got every 50/50 ball. We will move forward and correct some things going into Saturday’s game.”

Tony Montgomery led the charge for BPCC with 21 points, seven rebounds, and seven assists in a complete all-around effort. Zequan Lewis added 20 points and three assists, while Mazin Lumori contributed 14 points, including four made three-pointers to stretch the floor and keep the Cavaliers within striking distance.

BPCC now shifts its focus to a road matchup Saturday afternoon against Angelina College. The Cavaliers will then return home next week for their final two regular-season home games, with Sophomore Day scheduled for Feb. 28. The regular season concludes with back-to-back road contests at Lee College on March 4 and Coastal Bend College on March 7.

Visit www.bpcc.edu/athletics for game schedules, tickets, and updates all season long.