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 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.
