Basketball season got underway for Hayesville Middle School Monday, Nov. 4 when they hosted Andrews. After a thrilling four quarters of round ball, the Jackets were
victorious 36-33.
Asher Brown put the first points on the board for Hayesville when he nailed two free throws early in the first quarter. That sparked a 6-0 scoring run for the Jackets before Andrews cut the lead in half with a 3-pointer. Early-season rust was evident as both teams sized one another up. Hayesville was able to build up a 13-6 lead by quarter’s end.
Whistles saw more action than the ball to start the second quarter. Fouls on both teams slowed the action dramatically. As the quarter developed, Andrews used strong defense to pull wthin 6 points as the clock ticked down. With momentum slipping away, Taylor McClure nailed a 3-pointer to make the score 20-14 going into halftime.
It was a back and forth affair during the third quarter. Hayesville was able to find the bottom of the bucket but the Wildcats’ success on their end of the court kept the Jackets from pulling away. The two conference foes entered the final quarter with the Hayesville up 28-24.
With 5:50 left in the game, the Andrews crowd came to their feet as the Wildcats cut the deficit to 1 point. Things got even more intense with 1:26 left on the clock when Andrews managed to even things up 31-31. The Jackets remained calm as they brought the ball to their end of the floor. After creating space, McClure pulled up and swished a 3-pointer to put Hayesville up 36-33. Andrews would inboud the ball to try to tie but Brown made a quick steal, sealing the win for Hayesville.
A road game against Hiwassee Dam/Ranger on Thursday, Nov. 7 awaits Hayesville. Tip-off is set for 5 p.m.
Leaders vs Andrews
Taylor McClure: 15 points.
Jacob McClure: 10 points.
Asher Brown: 7 points.