Photo credits: MISD Athletics Director Wes Torres

What happened: Midland dropped a 56–44 non-district home loss to Abilene Cooper on Friday, Jan. 9. The loss moved the Bulldogs to 8–15 overall, while Cooper improved to 10–9 overall.

The big picture: The Bulldogs stayed within reach early and trailed by just one point at halftime, 22–21. Cooper maintained a narrow edge through three quarters, extending the lead to 37–33 entering the fourth. The Cougars pulled away late, outscoring Midland in the final period to secure the 12-point win.

What’s next: Midland will open district play in a crosstown rivalry at Legacy on Friday, Jan. 16. Tipoff is set for 7:30 p.m. Legacy enters the matchup at 6–13 overall.