The Lady Yellow Jackets fall in conference matchup at Cherokee
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 15, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to take on the Cherokee Lady Indians on Tuesday night, Jan. 14. Cherokee won the game 74-56 with a fantastic offensive output that the Lady Yellow Jackets could not keep up with. Cherokee is a notoriously difficult place to play with one of the best home court advantages in the conference. Rarely is there a time when teams travel to Cherokee that they do not have a large crowd supporting the home team.
Senior Jade Patterson makes a three pointer.
In the first quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets did not get off to best start but did manage to score 11 points in the quarter. Yet because of some good defense they were able to hold the Lady Indians to only 13 points. Hayesville finished the quarter trailing 13-11 with it still being very much anyone’s game.
In the second quarter Hayesville was able to increase their offensive output scoring 15 points in the quarter. Yet it mattered little as Cherokee’s offense got hot and managed to score an incredible 22 points in the quarter. Hayesville defense was not perfect but credit the Lady Indians who made some tough shots. Hayesville went into halftime looking to make some adjustments with Cherokee holding a 35-26 lead.
In the third quarter though Cherokee carried over their hot shooting and increased their lead. It was starting to look like it just was not the Lady Yellow Jackets night. Hayesville ended the quarter trailing 56-40 and seemingly did not have an answer for the Lady Indians on this night.
Kynnly McClure skies high to recieve a pass from her teammate
In the fourth quarter with a 16-point lead, the Lady Indians offense just continued to produce. To the tune of 18 fourth quarter points. Hayesville managed their best scoring quarter of the night with 16 points themselves. Unfortunately Cherokee was able to control the pace the majority of the night and won 74-56. These two teams will meet again and don’t be surprised if you see Hayesville play them much closer in the comfort of their own gym.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Jade Patterson, senior: 24 points; 8-of-12 from the 3-point line.
Brianna Foster, junior: 11 points and nine rebounds
Hayesville will next play at home, hosting the Nantahala Lady Hawks on Friday night, Jan. 17.
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville boys win to take first place in conference
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 11, 2020
On Friday night, January 10th the Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the undefeated Andrews Wildcats. Andrews while carrying a gaudy record had yet to play much competition that had tested them. They had played a very good, but up and down Cherokee team earlier in the week. Yet it is known Cherokee has never been much for defense and that’s a tough way to play against a team like Andrews. Hayesville was ready to bring great defense and play at a pace that would frustrate Andrews.
Junior Blake McClure leads the offensive break.
Head coach Michael Cottrell said pregame that the key to the game was contain, contain, contain. To make Andrew’s take contested jumpers and not finish easy at the rim. They have many great athletes who will happily beat people of the dribble and finish at the rim.
Early in the game it looked like Hayesvilles plan may not be a good one. Wildcat Junior Kabe Ellis scored Andrews first 11 points of the night. Ellis had four first half threes and looked like he may lead his team to a hard fought win. Even through his great scoring burst Hayesvilles steady offense helped them to a first quarter lead. That coupled with sophomore Jake McTaggart matching Ellis with 11 points of his own, Hayesville took a 19-16 lead into the second quarter.
In the second quarter the games initial up and down pace really changed with Hayesville controlling much of the ball. Andrews was looking for quick scoring and transition buckets. Very few were available for them as Hayesville got back on defense and made nothing easy. As well they were tiring Andrews out when they possessed the ball. Hayesville was patient and at times would run offense for a full 60 seconds. Waiting for Andrews to finally get impatient and jump a lane at the wrong time resulted in Hayesville getting some easy baskets. Hayesville took a 27-23 point lead into the half.
Sophomore Jake McTaggart sets up the defense with a post move.
Coming into the third quarter Hayesville still controlled the pace and contained as their coach wanted them to. Andrews hit many tough shots on the night but had very few easy scoring chances. Hayesville played tight man to man defense all night and rarely got caught out of position. It was another slow scoring quarter with Hayesville grinding it out on both sides of the ball. The quarter ended with Hayesville having a 36-31 point lead.
Coming into the fourth quarter the pace picked up a little and the scoring increased. Andrews even had a one point lead during the quarter. It appeared that they would steal a victory at Hayesville. Yet Hayesville had one last push in them that was too much for the Wildcats to handle. I would be remiss not to mention how fantastic Hayesvilles sophomore point guard Kolbe Ashe was. Not only did he control the pace the entire night he played fantastic defense on Ellis.
Free throw shooting was a struggle for both teams all night but Hayesville made some important ones at the end. McTaggart and freshman Kyle Lunsford each went two for two at the free throw lines in the waning minutes of the game. In the games closing minutes Ashes great defense on Ellis and tired Wildcat legs left them needing one or two more buckets they never found. Hayesville finished the game with great defense and just enough timely points to win 54-49.
Sophomore Kolbe Ashe beats a defender to finish at the rim.
Point leaders:
Jake McTaggart 23 points
Kolbe Ashe 15 points
Kyle Lunsford 7 points
It was a great night in Hayesville, former Yellow Jacket star Amanda Thompson had her jersey retired. The boys team did their part to complete a sweep of all the games and now sit alone in first place of the conference.
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets cruise to easy victory
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 11, 2020
On Friday night, Jan. 10, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Andrews Lady Wildcats. Regardless of records it was an important game with conference standings to think of. Andrews record coming into the game was nothing to write home about but are young and improving team.
Junior Brianna Foster finishes through a foul.
In the first quarter there was actually a little bit of back and forth. The Lady Wildcats pushed the Lady Yellow Jackets more than most would have expected. The Lady Yellow Jackets were able to get some needed points in the paint. Junior Brianna Foster provided it for Hayesville with seven first quarter points. Hayesville closed the quarter with a 12-8 lead.
The second quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets really tightened the defensive clamps in the second quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets also upped their scoring in the second quarter, with 14 points. Ten of those points came from Senior Jade Patterson with two big three pointers. Hayesville ended the half with a 26-11 lead.
Coming into the third quarter Hayesville had no plans to let up and looked to increase their lead. Once again the combination of Andrews offensive struggles and Hayesvilles great defense kept the Lady Wildcats to only four points in the quarter. Hayesville ended the third quarter with a few late buckets and 38-15 lead.
Coming into the fourth quarter with the game in hand Hayesville continued to execute offensively for another 13 points. They got scoring from five different players in the quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets were able to cruise to a 51 to 22 victory.
Sophomore Lila Payne makes a three.
Point leaders:
Brianna Foster 17 points
Lila Payne 12 points
Jade Patterson 11 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets had a well rounded performance with many players contributing. Sometimes it can be hard to play games like this but the Lady Yellow Jackets played hard. They were able to continue growing as a team and get ready for harder games to come.
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville boys use strong fourth quarter to earn win
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 7, 2020
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Highlands Highlanders on Monday evening, Jan. 6, for a non-conference matchup. The Yellow Jackets are still developing, trying to find out who is going to get the important rebounds and be secondary scorers. Hayesville is still working on some rotations and finding out who all fits together well. Some of those answers are starting to become clearer and a few players are starting to step up to grab those roles.
Junior Paul White runs off a screen ready to receive a pass.
In the first quarter of Monday’s game, Hayesville came out early with some aggressive play looking to strike for an early lead. The game was a physical early, especially on the Highlands end. Their play was a little too physical, and they were were called for several early fouls. Even with a few opportunities missed, Hayesville was able to take a 12-7 lead heading into the second quarter thanks to junior Brady Shooks’ six first-quarter points.
Highlands was not going away early and their star sophomore Reid Carrier carried them in the second quarter. They were able to cut into Hayesville’s lead by outscoring the Yellow Jackets 17-15 in the second quarter. That took the score to Hayesville 27, Highlands 24 at the half. Kolbe Ashe had a big second quarter with eight points, which included going 4-for-4 from the free-throw line.
Going into the third quarter, the game was still very much up for grabs. Both teams had the opportunity to make adjustments and take a stranglehold on the game. The Yellow Jackets’ sophomore duo of Jake McTaggart and Ashe both had four points, as did junior Hayden McClure. With that the Yellow Jackets were able to double their lead from three points to six points by the end of the quarter. Finishing the quarter with a 41-35 lead the Yellow Jackets were ready to finish it off in the fourth.
Sophomore Kolbe Ashe shoots a free throw.
Hayesville’s game plan was simple and effective in the fourth quarter, get the ball to McTaggart and let him go to work. He started off with his first touch being a great score through traffic getting fouled and finishing off by making the free throw for the old fashioned three-point play. McTaggart had nine points in the quarter. Along with Hayesville’s stellar fourth quarter defense, the Highlanders did not have a chance for a comeback. The game was capped off with Hayesville junior Tyler Jones making some important free throws to put it out of reach, 61-41.
Hayesville will play again tonight, traveling to take on the Hiwassee Dam Eagles. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets survive fourth-quarter scare to win
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 7, 2020
The Hayesville girls basketball team held on late to earn a 38-37 win against Highlands on Monday, Jan. 6, at home. This was the first of three games this week for Hayesville and a great chance for them to get their week started on a good note. The Lady Yellow Jackets have been struggling at times to get off to good starts, often putting themselves in holes that are hard to climb out of.
Junior Kynnly McClure beats a defender off the dribble.
This proved to be the case against Highlands as the Lady Yellow Jackets found themselves down 10-2 at the end of the first quarter. Hayesville played pretty good defense and had some good looks on the offensive side of the ball, yet the shots were not falling and Hayesville had their lowest scoring quarter of the year.
Coming into the second quarter, head coach Chad McClure made some adjustments and the team began to play completely different. The Lady Yellow Jackets came back in impressive fashion with 17 second-quarter points. Hayesville was led in the half by senior guard Jade Patterson who had 10 points, eight of which came in the second quarter to help give the Lady Yellow Jackets a 19-17 halftime lead.
The third quarter was all about the Lady Yellow Jackets stellar defense, as they managed to score just nine points in the quarter. Yet their strong team defense held Highlands to only five points in the frame. Hayesville got two big baskets from junior Kynnly McClure to lead them in the quarter. With all that put together, the Lady Yellow Jackets finished the third quarter with a 28-22 lead.
Junior Brianna Burnette makes a strong post move for the score.
They would need every point of that lead coming into the fourth quarter to try and escape with a victory. The Lady Yellow Jackets and Highlands were both into the double bonus with several minutes left in the game. The last few minutes were a bit of a free-throw shooting contest with Highlands making double-digit fourth-quarter free throws. With Highlands down one with three seconds left, coach Jake Page drew up a great play and his team had a great shot as time expired. The ball went up and the gym was silent. The ball bounced off the rim on two sides before falling away and the cheers from the Hayesville side were loud as the Lady Jackets sealed a one-point win, 38-37.
In post game talks with Hayesville head coach Chad McClure, he said sometimes you just have to survive regardless of how you play. He was proud of his team for finding a way to win. Hayesville was led by senior Jade Patterson with 12 points and sophomore Lila Payne with nine points.
Hayesville travels to the Hiwassee Dam Lady Eagles on Tuesday night for a non-conference matchup.
Weekly Lady Yellow Jackets review and preview
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 6, 2020
Let’s take a look at the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets previous week from 12/30-1/05. The Lady Yellow Jackets finally got a well deserved holiday break after playing in the very competitive Battle of the States tournament. Head Coach Chad McClure gave the team a practice or two off and said his team would focus on the fundamentals once they started back. They played only one game a, a saturday matchup with border rivals Towns Co.
Annie Brooks launches a three.
In their game against the Towns Co. Lady Indians Hayesville came in knowing they would have be ready to handle full court pressure. Head Coach Chad McClure and staff had the Lady Yellow Jackets ready from the get go. They got off to a great start to gain an early lead and important early game momentum. The Lady Indians fought back and never allowed Hayesville to increase their first quarter lead by more than a few points. Yet they also could never get over the hump to take a lead of their own. Hayesville defeated Towns Co. for the second time in as many weeks 46-37.
This upcoming week should be a great week for basketball fans as the Lady Yellow Jackets have a full three game slate. They start the week hosting Highlands followed by an away game a short drive away to Hiwassee Dam. They wrap up their week up their week by hosting a conference opponent in the Andrews Lady Wildcats. Friday evening will a special treat for Yellow Jackets fans as Hayesville will be retiring Amanda Thompson #20 jersey after a storied high school and college career. There will be a full interview exclusive with Amanda Thompson later this week.
Coaches Corner weekly exclusive interview with head coach Chad McClure:
- Another good win over Towns Co. what was the key to the game for your team coach?
Going in we knew we had to handle their pressure and really force them into a half court game. We got the lead early and defensively we were able to slow them down enough even when our shots weren’t falling.
- With more games three than practice this week how do you handle game planning?
We just take it one day at a time. At this point in the season, most of our system is in so we just focus on minor adjustments and stress taking care of ourselves and focusing on the task at hand.
- You seem to be getting different leading scorers each game. What does that say about your team’s flexibility?
All 8 of our players contribute in their own way. This team is very united and works well together. They share the ball and don’t care who gets the credit.
- Anything you would like to share about your three opponents this week for readers to look out for?
Highlands is a scrappy team similar to us. Hiwassee Dam is good with a lot of size. Andrews is rebuilding but their kids play hard.
Kynnly McClure skies high to recieve a pass from her teammate
Preview:
In the first game of the week the Lady Yellow Jackets will be hosting the Highland Lady Highlanders. The Lady Highlanders come into the game 4-6 but don’t let their record fool you. They have played some tough competition, a one point loss to Franklin, win over Hiwassee Dam, Towns Co and Brevard. It appears in this game the two teams could be fairly evenly matched. This game will come down to three things in my opinion, first taking care of the ball to limit turnovers. Secondly if one team has a large margin in rebounding that could be the difference. Lastly offensive execution will be big, who can get it to their scorers in effective places.
On Tuesday night the Lady Yellow Jackets will travel across county lines and head to Hiwassee Dam. The Lady Eagles are 4-6 coming into the game but are on an upswing winning all four of those games within their last five. As well they are a well coach disciplined group with quite a bit of size to contend with. Hayesville will look to keep their trio of Junior post players Brianna Burnette, Kynnly McClure and Jocelin Buckner out of foul trouble. If Hayesville three player rotation can provide some rebound and force tough shots the Lady Yellow Jackets stand a good chance to win.
After a couple of practices Hayesville will wrap up their week with their only conference game of the week hosting the Andrews Lady Wildcats. It should be a special night with the jersey retirement of former Hayesville star Amanda Thomspon. The Lady Yellow Jackets are sure to want to get a good result for their former player on her big night. The task should be doable. The Lady Wildcats are a young scrappy group but are just not ready to compete at the highest level in the conference this year.
The Lady Yellow Jackets have three winnable games this week. The question is can they get off to better starts that plagued them in the Battle of the States? I believe they can and showed they have made progress with that against Towns Co. last week. The prediction is 3-0 this week but more games than practice in a week can be a tough task. It will require high focus and good execution for the Lady Yellow Jackets to do it.
To get updates or see how the Lady Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville boys earn win against rival Towns Co.
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 5, 2020
The Hayesville boys basketball team managed to redeem a loss to Towns Co. a week ago by taking down the Indians 52-48 on Saturday, Jan. 4, in Hayesville.
Junior Hayden McClure makes a free throw
Junior Hayden McClure led the Yellow Jackets in the first quarter with five points. Despite that, Towns Co. led 13-12 at the end of the first quarter with seven points from sophomore Collin Crowder.
Hayesville still was able to get their regular offensive output in the second quarter but great team defense was key to the quarter. Towns Co. didnt get many good looks in the quarter and with Hayesville dominating the boards, they weren’t getting second chances. Hayesville held the Indians to only seven second-quarter points while scoring 12 themselves. This totalled to give Hayesville a 24-20 lead at the half.
Coming into the third quarter both crowds were getting into the game and the environment was a great one. Both teams had a great crowd and each side was trying to cheer their team to victory. There was barely a seat to be had in the entire gym and each side was living and dying with each play. Hayesville went to big man sophomore Jake McTaggart in the third quarter and he did not disappoint. He responded with nine third quarter points and gave the crowd one its loudest applause of the night with a monster baseline dunk.
Freshman Kyle Lunsford makes a post move for a score.
In the fourth quarter behind eight points from junior Kolby Moss, Towns Co. came all the way back and even had a two-point lead. It appeared Towns Co. was going to prove their first win wasn’t a fluke, yet Hayesville would not be denied, With a 3-pointer from junior Hayden McClure, a few huge offensive rebounds from freshman Kyle Lunsofrd, and seven fourth-quarter points from Kolbe Ashe, Hayesville stole victory from the clutches of defeat. Hayesville used good free-throw shooting to finish the game off 52-48
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville girls earn second win against Towns Co.
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 5, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Towns Co. Lady Indians on Saturday, Jan.4, and used a strong all-around performance to earn a 46-37 victory.
Junior Breanna Burnette makes a free throw
Hayesville has been plagued with slow offensive starts in recent weeks. That was not the case this week as the Lady Yellow Jackets put up 15 first-quarter points. By holding Towns Co. to only 10 points, they escaped the first quarter with a five-point lead. Hayesville also got five big points off the bench from junior Jocelyn Buckner in the first quarter.
Moving into the second quarter, both teams struggled offensively and it was a bit of a grind. Towns Co. was running pressure defense and Hayesville couldn’t break through to get into any sets. Hayesville only had five points in the second quarter while Towns Co. only made one shot – a 3-pointer – in the quarter. Led by sophomore Lila Payne with seven points the Lady Yellow Jackets led 20-13 at the half.
Coming out in the third quarter both teams found more offensive success and traded punches in the quarter. Towns Co. was trying to claw their way back and Hayesville was trying to extend their lead. Neither team was able to do so in the third quarter and they stalemated 12-12 in the period.
Junior Lizzy Brusini dribbles through traffic.
Hayesville gave up no ground in the fourth quarter, fighting hard, making some big shots, and playing solid defense. Hayesville got points from four different players in the quarter to help them seal their victory. The Lady Yellow Jackets managed to hang on late to earn the 46-37 victory.
Hayesville was led by Payne with 14 points and also got a double digit effort out of Buckner off the bench with 10 points.
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Weekly Hayesville Yellow Jacket review/preview
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 3, 2020
Let’s start by taking a look at the Hayesville Yellow Jackets’ previous week. Dec. 22 through Dec. 28, the Yellow Jackets participated in the annual Battle of the States Christmas tournament hosted by Towns Co. High in Hiwassee. The Yellow Jackets played in three very tough, highly-competitive games. The Yellow Jackets finished the tournament 2-1, earning some hardware for their third-place finish. After several strong performances, sophomore Jake McTaggart earned all-tournament honors.
In the first game of the tournament, Hayesville took on Polk Co. out of Tennessee. Polk Co. may have been the best team in the tournament and were solid at all positions. They even had the reigning player of the year from their conference on their team. Hayesville’s shots were not falling early and the team trailed at the end of the first quarter 15-11. The next three quarters were all Yellow Jackets as they controlled the game from the second quarter forward. Thanks to 30 points from McTaggart and 17 points from fellow sophomore Kolbe Ashe, the Yellow Jackets won 70-56.
The Yellow Jackets advanced to the semifinals to take on host Towns Co. Simply put, the Indians wanted this game a little more at the start and the good start, along with the home crowd, was too much to overcome. The Yellow Jackets fell to the Indians in a heartbreaker, 67-64, despite a 28-point performance from McTaggart.
In a game that would show the Yellow Jackets resolve, they played for third place in a game against the Lumpkin Co. Indians. Hayesville came out fired up and playing high-pressure defense getting out to a great start. Their were some ups and downs but Hayesville controlled the game. With three double-digit scorers – McTaggart 16, junior Brady Shook 13 and junior Blake McClure 11 – the Yellow Jackets won 57-45.
Coaches Corner weekly exclusive interview with head coach Michael Cottrell:
- How did you feel overall about your team’s performance in the Battle of the States tournament?
Felt ok about our week. Anytime you lose one down the stretch, we have a chance to teach and learn from it. We beat a really good team the first night. Thought we did some good things on both ends of the floor. The last night we beat a very competitive team and responded very well to the loss the night before.
- It’s pretty incredible, the performances you have been getting out of your sophomores. Can you remember a time in your career getting this kind of production out of a sophomore?
Yes we have had good performances from both our sophomores. Both are learning fast and have very bright futures. We have had a few sophomores in the past that have performed well and our team needed them to play as upperclassmen. These two certainly fit that group. Very excited about there growth to this point.
- With one game on the schedule this week what will practice this week be focused on?
Continue to work on defense. We also need to continue to understand our role on the team and settle into those roles. Every team is different and each year kids learn new skills that help the team grow.
- That one game being Towns Co. who upset you in the tournament. What do you do differently on Saturday to get a better outcome?
We just need to be more consistent on both ends of the floor. Stay within ourselves and focus on executing. This team is getting better and will continue to grow. By playoff time they could be a difficult team to handle.
Junior Paul White makes a three pointer.
Weekly Preview:
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets (7-2, 4,0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A) will be playing a rematch with border rival Towns Co. (8-3) on Saturday, Jan. 4, at home. Towns Co. is coming off a big win in the Battle of the States Christmas Tournament. Huge performances from Towns Co. juniors Aidan Berrong and Kolby Moss sprung the upset in the first matchup. Hayesville will have the advantage of rest with not having played since the tournament and Towns Co. playing Friday night, Jan. 3.
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Weekly Hayesville Lady Yellow Jacket review/preview
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 2, 2020
Let’s start by taking a look at the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets’ previous week. Dec.22 through Dec. 28, the Lady Yellow Jackets participated in the annual Battle of the States Christmas Tournament hosted by Towns Co. High in Hiawassee. The Lady Yellow Jackets played in three very tough, highly-competitive games. They finished the tournament 1-2 but were only a few shots and a couple of bounces from winning each of their games. After a solid tournament, senior Jade Patterson was the Lady Yellow Jackets all-tournament selection.
Junior Brianna Foster finishes strong.
The Lady Yellow Jackets started off the tournament with a first round matchup with Hokes Bluff, from Alabama. Hayesville got off to a rough start getting down 11-0 early in the game. After a timeout and a defensive change up, the Yellow Jackets fought back. After the bad start, they played even or possibly even a little better than their opponent. Unfortunately the bad start was too much to overcome and Hayesville fell 53-46. The Lady Yellow Jackets were led by Patterson who scored 16 points.
In the second game of the tournament, the Lady Yellow Jackets took on their state line rivals and tournament host Towns Co. Hayesville was the one who got off to a hot start this game taking an early 17-5 lead against Towns Co. The Lady Indians chipped away at the Hayesville lead, outscoring the Lady Yellow Jackets in the next two quarters. The Lady Yellow Jackets would not be denied and hit some big shots down the stretch to seal the win 49-42. Hayesville got another big performance out of Patterson, who scored 19 points and pulled down eight rebounds. Sophomore Lila Payne chipped in 11 points to be the other Lady Yellow Jackets double digit scorer.
Breanna Burnette makes a free throw.
In the third game of the tournament, the Lady Yellow Jackets took on Lumpkin Co. As they did in the first game of the tournament, Hayesville got off to a slow start. The Lady Yellow Jackets had some good shots that didn’t fall and Lumpkin Co. got off to a hot shooting start. Hayesville battled hard over the last three quarters but the slow start was too much to overcome. The Lady Yellow Jackets fell 50-34 but got another strong performance from Payn,e who had double digit points for the second game in a row with 14.
Coaches Corner weekly exclusive interview with head coach Chad McClure:
1. How did you feel overall about your team’s performance in the Battle of the States tournament?
Overall, we learned a lot about ourselves and things we need to work on. In the two games we lost we didn’t start well and couldn’t recover. Defensively, we continue to improve. We competed and had chances to win. We need to use the experience to help us down the road.
2. How do you feel about your team’s offensive execution and point production?
We didn’t shoot well at times and turned the ball over too much, which led to early deficits. At times we execute and score well, we just need to work on it more consistently. We have to cut down on turnovers and continue to improve offensively. You have to give credit to the other teams defenses as well.
3. With one game on the schedule this week what will practice this week be focused on?
We will work a lot of fundamentals, address areas of concern, and continue to work on improving.
4. That one game being Towns Co. who you beat in the tournament. What do you do to get another successful outcome?
We will have to handle their full court pressure and really make them work on the defensive end. They have some good players who are tough to stop. It will be a competitive game as it always is.
Weekly Preview:
Senior Jade Patterson dribbles through traffic.
The Lady Yellow Jackets will got a well deserved break and only play one game this week. They play their last scheduled Saturday game of the year at home against rival Towns Co. Lady Indians on Saturday, Jan. 4. It should be a racaus environment, the Lady Yellow Jackets defeated the Lady Indians in their tournament last week. The Lady Indians will be looking for revenge and the Lady Yellow Jackets will need to get off to a good start. Hayesville will have the advantage of rest with not having played since the tournament and Towns Co. playing Friday night, Jan. 3.
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Yellow Jackets stunned in upset loss to Towns Co.
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports December 28, 2019
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets (6-1, 4-0) played the Towns Co. Indians (6-3) in the semifinal round of the Battle of States Tournament on Thursday evening, Dec. 26th. The Indians of Towns Co. were fired up early and one could tell how important the game was to them.
They outworked and played a little bit harder than Hayesville in the first quarter, which resulted in Hayesville being down 18-14 at the end of the first. Towns Co. was led by Junior Kolby Moss all game and he got them off to a good start in the first quarter with five points and several assists.
In the second quarter the Yellow Jackets started playing much harder and were getting better looks. Yet the momentum was in Towns Co.’s favor, and they continued to hit shots each time the Jackets started to close in. Even though the Jackets were getting great looks, they had several shots go in-and-out. Sophomore Kolbe Ashe was robbed at least twice from beyond the arc with unfavorable rims.
Everything was going the Indians’ way as their shots continued to fall. Oppositely, the Yellow Jackets had their worst offensive half of the year. The Indians, looking to pull off the upset, carried momentum and a 31-23 point lead into the half.
The adjustments made at halftime were on point for the Jackets. They came out fired up, played a great third quarter and appeared to be taking control of the game. That was topped off by sophomore Jake McTaggart hitting a half court shot at the end of the third to give the Jackets a one-point lead going into the fourth quarter.
With the Jackets leading 46-45 going to the fourth, they looked to increase their lead and clinch a spot in the finals. But Towns Co. had a few big shots left in them and the Jackets had no answer. One of the deciders was that Kolby Moss shot 10 fourth-quarter free throws after the Indians got into the bonus early.
McTaggart had a chance to give the Jackets a lead with about 15 seconds left but couldn’t convert. Kolbe Ashe had a chance to tie the game in the finals seconds, but his last second deep shot was deflected and the game was over. The Towns Co. Indians upset was complete, 67-64.
Hayesville wins in round one of the Battle of the States
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports December 27, 2019
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets (5-1, 4-0 Big Smoky Mountains 1-A) played the Polk Co. Wildcats (7-1) out of Tennessee in the first round of the Battle of States Tournament on Thursday evening, Dec. 26th.
Hayesville did not have an ideal start to the game, and Polk’s guards appeared to surprise the Yellow Jacket defenders. That coupled with star sophomore guard Kolbe Ashe picking up two first-quarter fouls, it appeared the Yellow Jackets might be in trouble. Ashe coming off the floor is rare and not something the Yellow Jackets have been accustomed to seeing since Ashe has been in high school. All this resulted in the Yellow Jackets trailing 15-11 at the end of the first quarter. McTaggart had eight first-quarter points to help keep the Jackets in the game when the rest of the team struggled.
The second quarter was a different story with Hayesville finding their footing and taking back control of the game. It appeared that Hayesville football quarterback junior Hayden McClure shook off a little of that football rust. He assumed the point-guard position for the Yellow Jackets with Ashe in foul trouble. He provided steady ball handling and provided six second-quarter points. The Yellow Jackets took the lead from the Wildcats 30-29 going into the half.
The Yellow Jackets knew they needed to make adjustments going into the second half to keep their lead. The first adjustment was an easy one – get Ashe back on the floor. They did that in the third quarter and he responded with two big 3-pointers. This spread the floor for the Jackets and lead to the team getting good second-half looks at the basket. The Jackets extended their lead at the end of the third quarter to 49-45.
Ashe continued to control the pace in the fourth, making the right decisions and finding the open player, and Polk Co. just couldn’t keep up. Hayesville’s lone senior, Mark Cothren, found more space with Ashe and McTaggart requiring much of Polk Co.’s defensive focus. Cothren had eight second-half points, including a backbreaking outside shot late in the fourth quarter. Along with Ashe having nine fourth quarter points, the Wildcats just didn’t have an answer on offense.
In a postgame discussion with head coach Mike Cottrell, he said the key in the game was their second-half defense. The Yellow Jackets switched to a different defensive scheme and added lots of pressure that really bothered the Polk Co. guards. Each time the Wildcats would find some level of comfort, the Yellow Jackets would switch up their defense. It was too much for Polk Co. to handle offensively, while the duo of Ashe and McTaggart was too much for the Wildcats to handle defensively. Hayesville pulled away late to earn the 70-56 win.
Coming into the game, Ashe was averaging 16.75 points a game, while McTaggart was averaging 21.8. Against Polk Co., Ashe had 17 points, with 15 coming in the second half, and McTaggart led the team with 30.
With the win, the Yellow Jackets advanced to the semifinals against host Towns Co.. The game will be the last of the day in tournament, Friday, Dec. 27th, at 8 p.m. It could be a fantastic matchup with Hayesville taking on possibly the best player they have seen this year in Towns Co. junior point guard Kolby Moss, who scored 27 in the Indians first-round win. Moss has had games of 36, 25, and 28 points so far this season.
Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets fall to the Murphy Lady Bulldogs
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports December 20, 2019
On Thursday night, Dec. 19, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets (2-1, 1-0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A) took the trip across the county line to take on their bitter rivals, the Murphy Lady Bulldogs (3-0, 1-0). The game was an interesting matchup as the only conference loss Murphy took last year was against Hayesville.
Annie Brooks launches a three.
The first quarter was highly contested with the Lady Yellow Jackets and the Lady Bulldogs trading punches. One of Hayesvilles keys to their early-season success has been strong offensive execution. That was on display early with the Lady Yellow Jackets at one point running their motion offense for 75 seconds. Unfortunately, their strong offensive execution in the first quarter while leading to good looks was not resulting in points. This resulted in the Lady Jackets ending the first quarter trailing the Lady Bulldogs 17-8.
The Lady Bulldogs put all of their talent on display in the second quarter much to the Lady Jackets dismay. The Lady Jackets were able to match their first quarter scoring total in the second quarter but it was not enough to keep up. The Lady Bulldogs poured it on in the second quarter thanks to their high-pressure defense and hot shooting, scoring 21 second quarter points and leading 38-16 at the half.
It was more of the same in the second half with the Lady Bulldogs controlling the action. The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets were playing hard but the Lady Bulldogs press defense gave the Lady Jackets a hard time. At the end of the third, the Lady Bulldogs led 62-29.
Coming into the fourth quarter, the Lady Yellow Jackets did not give up and actually outscored the Lady Bulldogs by nine points in the fourth quarter. This came with most of the Bulldog starters still in the game and showed that while the score was insurmountable. The Lady Yellow Jackets could play with them and may possibly show them what to do before their next matchup.
Brianna Foster drives to the lane for two.
The Jackets did have a few strong performances in the game being led in scoring by junior Brianna Foster with 15. Senior Annie Brooks chipped eight while both junior Lizzy Brusini and Senior Jade Patterson had six points a piece.
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets (3-2, 2-1) will next take the floor at home Friday Dec 20th against the Robbinsville Lady Black Knights (2-0, 0-0).
Brianna Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Hayesville Basketball, Player of the Week, TeamFYNSports December 15, 2019
Brianna Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Foster, a junior post player, averaged 12.3 points per game during the week as Hayesville (3-1, 2-0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A) earned the first two conference wins of the season.
After the Lady Yellow Jackets dropped a tough, 47-32 game at Franklin on Monday, Dec. 9, the team rebounded to take down Rosman 55-32 in Hayesville on Tuesday, Dec. 10.
Foster played well in both games, showing that she is quick to act when she gets the ball and does most of her damange inside the paint with a variety of post moves.
Foster finished the week with her biggest game, scoring 20 points and pulling down 12 rebounds in a 60-42 victory against Swain Co. on Friday, Dec. 13, in Hayesville.
For her efforts, Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Jake McTaggert is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Yellow Jackets!
Hayesville Basketball, Player of the Week, TeamFYNSports December 15, 2019
Jake McTaggert is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Yellow Jackets!
McTaggert, a 6-foot-7 sophomore, averaged 23 points per game during the past week and showed up big in the most important games for Hayesville (3-1, 2-0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A).
McTaggert started the week with a game-high 32 points in a narrow, 61-60 loss to Franklin on Monday, Dec. 9.
He followed that with 10 points and 10 rebounds in a lopsided, 71-24 victory against Rosman in Hayesville on Tuesday, Dec. 10, to give the team their first conference win of the season.
McTaggert finished the week with 27 points, including five made 3-pointers, to go along with six rebounds in Hayesville’s 79-40 victory against Swain Co. at home to move the Yellow Jackets’ conference record to 2-0.
For his efforts, McTaggert is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Yellow Jackets!
Hayesville Girls Earn Victory Against Swain Co.
Hayesville High, TeamFYNSports December 14, 2019
On Friday the Swain Maroon Lady Devils traveled to Clay county to take on the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets. The Lady Devils entered the competition 1-1 while the Lady Yellow Jackets entered the competition 2-1. This game was an important early season matchup for conference positioning.
In talks pregame head coach Chad McClure said the key to game for Hayesville would be offensive execution. Well the Jackets got off to a shaky start in the first few minutes but settled in. To do that Hayesville went to the post and Brianna Foster did not disappoint scoring 6 of the 12 first quarter points for the Lady Jackets. This gave the Lady Jackets an early 12- 8 lead after the first quarter ended.
Kynnly McClure skies high to receive a pass from her teammate
The second quarter was back and forth with the Lady Devils fighting back closing in on the Jackets lead. In response Hayesville ratcheted up their defensive pressure fighting back against the Lady Devils forcing them into several turnovers. Then with some timely three point shooting by Lizzy Brusini and Annie Brooks the Lady Jackets were able to end the quarter on a run and extend their lead to 7 making the score 24-17 at the half.
After making adjustments at the half head coach Chad McClure had his Lady Yellow Jackets executing offensively to their highest scoring quarter yet. Netting sixteen points in the third quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets were able to continue building on their lead. They once again started feeding the ball down low to their post players to which several players contributed with a total of ten points in the paint.
Coming into the 4th quarter Hayesville continued to execute at a high level resulting in an offensive explosion netting twenty 4th quarter points. That combined with stellar defense just put the game out of reach for the Lady Devils who just couldn’t hold on any longer. This allowed the Jackets to finish the game comfortably winning 60 to 42.
The Jackets consistency tonight allowed them to never feel out of control of the game. The Lady Jackets won each quarter of the game and also either matched or increased their scoring each quarter along the way. Senior Jade Patterson was a steadying influence for the young team by scoring in every quarter finishing the game with 11 points. Junior Brianna Foster led the way for the Lady Jackets with a 20 point performance. Foster executed well with all of her points coming in paint on a variety of post moves, quick finishes and putbacks from offensive rebounds.
The Lady Jackets will next take the court at Murphy on Thursday December 19th for a 6:30 tip against the defending conference champions Murphy Lady Bulldogs, this game should be a good barometer for where this young team is at. Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports/.