By Deby Jo Ferguson
Sports Writer
Hayesville’s varsity boys overwhelmed the Highlanders in a non-conference game at home with a final score of 64-35.
The Jackets took the floor in first quarter like a heard of buffalo, controlling the nets from every angle. Ethan Hooper hit two 3-pointers, Jake McTaggart added 7 while Asher Brown, Logan Caldwell and Kyle Lunsford all contributed with 4 points. Hayesville’s defense held Highlands to 4 points to take the lead 25-4.
Highlands bounced back during the second quarter, lighting up the nets and adding 11 points. Hayesville was still on the mark offensively adding an additional 22 points. Brown sank 10 points for Hayesville including a 3-pointer along with 3 from the charity line and two 2-point baskets. Also contributing to the score was McTaggart with 6 and Caldwell and Hooper added one 3-point basket each. The Jackets led 47-17 at halftime.
During the third quarter, Hayesville once again controlled the pace of the game, holding Highlands to 7 points. The Jackets kept the hot hand, adding 17 points to their cause. McTaggart added 5 points for a game total of 18 while Caldwell hit two 3-point baskets on his way to a total of 13 points. Cade Denton netted four points and Taylor McClure matched Lunsford with 2.
Scoring was even in the final quarter with each team adding 11 points which gave the Jackets the 64-35 victory.
“After a 13-day layoff, our team played well at times,” said head Coach Michael Cottrell. “We were excited to be back in action again this week. There was good contribution from everyone on the team.”
The Jackets will host Murphy on Friday, Jan. 28 at 6 p.m. with the JV team beginning at 4 p.m. On Saturday, Jan. 29, Hayesville will travel across the mountain to take on Franklin.