For the first time in 2001, the seventh-ranked Temple boys basketball team is coming off a loss. And it's a foreign feeling to be sure.The Wildcats' 75-68 loss at No. 14 Georgetown last Friday was their first setback since a Dec. 29 defeat to Fort Worth Dunbar in the Fort Worth Lions Tournament, a span of 10 games.And after a 7-0 January in which they climbed to a spot alone atop the District 13-5A standings, the Wildcats (24-4, 6-1 in district) now share first place with Georgetown (27-3, 6-1).It's a revolting development, but one Temple isn't dwelling on. Not when an even bigger positive looms ahead.A win over last-place Waco (6-19, 0-7) in today's 7:30 p.m. matchup at Wildcat Gym would secure Temple's second consecutive playoff berth following a six-year postseason absence from 1994-99.That said, the Wildcats' mood has quickly transformed from dejection to excited anticipation."Our guys are disappointed that we didn't get it done at Georgetown, but sometimes you learn more from losing than from winning," Temple coach Bruce Etheridge said. "We're staying focused on what needs to be done and we're excited about (tonight). Win and we're in. It's that simple."Temple and Georgetown own a one-game advantage over third-place Killeen Ellison (5-2) and a three-game cushion over fourth-place Killeen (3-4). Temple and Georgetown can automatically clinch playoff berths with victories tonight or a Killeen loss to Ellison. by Tom Day