By Deby Jo Ferguson
Sports Writer
On Tuesday, Feb. 1, Hayesville’s Varsity Yellow Jackets crushed the Maroon Devils, 80-55 in a conference game on Swain’s turf. On Friday, Feb. 4, the Jackets traveled to Cherokee for their second conference win for the week, defeating the Braves 64-36.
The first quarter against Swain was a nail-biter. The Jackets had their work cut out for them as Swain rode their heels defensively. Kolbe Ashe hit two 3-pointers and a 2-point basket during the quarter. Hayesville persevered, making the quarter theirs in the end by 2 points, holding a 22-20 lead.
Ashe and Jake McTaggart led in the second quarter with 5 points each. The tides turned as the Jackets defense wreaked havoc on Swain, allowing only 10 points and grabbing 14 on offense for a 6-point lead at the half.
There’s nothing like a little team talk during the break. The Jackets came back on the court like a swarm of bees surrounding the Maroon Devils. Not only did Hayesville’s defense hold Swain to 7 points, but they had an overwhelming connection with the rims. McTaggart contributed 9 points during the quarter helping the Jackets extend their lead to 55-37.
In the final quarter, Swain gave the Jackets quality competition by scoring 18 points. As time ticked down, the Maroon Devils had to start fouling, allowing the Jackets excessive points from the free throw. It became Hayesville’s game, and the Jackets extended their undefeated streak with the 80-55 victory.
Hayesville was once again on the road Friday travelling to Cherokee for their second conference match-up for the week.
The Jackets set the tone early, scoring 19 points and holding the Braves to 7. Smart defensive play meant the Jackets only sacrificed one point from the foul line during the quarter.
Cherokee bounced back in the second, dropping 14 points, including 4 freebies. Hayesville made the most of their trips to the foul line, adding 8 points. Cherokee outscored the Jackets by 4 points but not enough to take the lead. Hayesville was still in control of the game with a 29-21 halftime lead.
After the half, Hayesville pumped up their power of play by outscoring the Braves 16-11 and maintaining the lead. Kyle Lunsford and Jacob McClure contributed 6 points each with three shots through the rim, while Ashe hit the mark four times from the charity line. Hayesville led at the end of the third 45-32.
In the final quarter of the game, the Jackets turned on their defense, limiting the Braves to 4 points. McTaggart contributed 11 of the Hayesville’s 19 points in the quarter Cade Denton dropped a 3-pointer and the Jackets picked up the 64-36 win..
According to Coach Michael Cottrell, “This was two very good wins on the road. This team just keeps getting better with experience. I’m looking forward to last part of the season. Our guys are focused and hungry to see what we can achieve together.”
On Monday, Feb. 7, the Yellow Jackets again faced Cherokee for a make-up game in The Hive. Hayesville successfully defended their home court by the final of 70-46. The Jackets were led by Ethan Hooper with 18 points.