Tigers varsity hoopsters on a roll and improve to 13-6 after slow start due to football playoffs. Lemoore takes on WYL rival Tulare Western Friday night

The Emperors defeated  Lemoore in a tournament on Dec. 10, outscoring the Tigers 66-55.

The Tigers were slated to play another home contest Friday against visiting Tulare Western before taking on Bakersfield Christian in an 11 a.m. non-league contest.

The Tigers have compiled a 13-2 record since having a complete roster in place.

Lemoore's Kobe Green eyes the basket in Wednesday night win over league rival Dinuba.

Photo by Bill Burris

Lemoore powered past Dinuba early, outscoring the visitors 27-9 to set the tone for the game. However, Dinuba, 18-3 overall and 1-2 in the WYL returned the favor, tossing in 20 points while holding the Tiger to just 11 points in the second period.

Despite the second-quarter blitz, Dinuba trailed 38-29 at the halfway break. The Emperors closed the gap with a 14-9 third quarter before a Tiger defense held the visitors to just nine fourth-quarter points, handing the Tigers a 60-52 victory and the WYL’s top spot.

Lemoore's Lady Tigers had their turn at Dinuba but did it on the road as they dropped a disappointing 49-46 game to the Emperors Wednesday. Lemoore fell to 9-9 overall and is 1-1 in the WYL. Lemoore held a 27- 23 halftime lead, but a 26-point second half sealed the deal for Dinuba as the Tigers could muster just 19 points.