By Moses Leos III

Missed opportunities to tie or take the lead in the final minute Tuesday hurt the Hays Lady Rebel basketball team in a tight 39-35 loss to the Smithson Valley Rangers.

Despite the struggles, Hays head coach Danny Preuss was encouraged by the effort as it provided a needed early season barometer, especially against teams they could potentially play in the postseason.

“They are playing hard and playing good and playing tough,” Preuss said. “Even though we make a lo...