Hayesville Handles Murphy at Home for Season Sweep
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports January 29, 2022
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets continue their incredible run of the play that has lasted for almost two seasons now. The Yellow Jackets defended home court last night against rival Murphy. It was a special night in Hayesville as the Yellow Jackets retired Zach Cottrell’s jersey. After the ceremony between the boys and girls games, the Yellow Jackets boys team took the floor. They made Cottrell proud, who now serves as an assistant coach by beating their county line rivals 77-50.
Jersey Retirement:
Hayesville honored Zach Cottrell for his outstanding playing career, both as a Yellow Jacket and collegiately. Arguably the best boys player in Smoky Mountain Conference history, Cottrell is the only player to win the SMC Conference Player of the Year award four times. Cottrell was also four-time NCPreps all-state and NCHSAA all-state three times. Cottrell scored 1978 career points and, at the time of his graduation, was the program’s all-time leading scorer to go along with 976 career rebounds. Throughout his playing career, Cottrell led his team to four consecutive conference championships.
1st Half:
Once the action started shortly after the jersey retirement ceremony, the Yellow Jackets played one of their best games of the season. Hayesville’s offense was dominant, and no matter what the Bulldogs tried to do defensively, the Yellow Jackets had the answer. Give credit to Murphy point guard Dillian Brown who single-handedly kept the Bulldogs within reach for most of the 1st half with 17 points and 15 coming in the 2nd quarter alone.
Yet his big first-half performance was surpassed by Hayesvilles Jake Mctaggart, who had 19 first-half points, including 3-3 from three-point range. The difference was outside of those two outstanding first-half performances, Mctaggarts teammates also scored quite a bit as well as three other Yellow Jackets had seven or more first-half points. By the halftime horn, Hayesville led 44-28.
2nd Half:
Murphy, who let a 20+ point lead slip away the night before, had thoughts of a similar comeback against Hayesville. The Yellow Jackets quickly shut down any thoughts of a Bulldog comeback. The sting of the Yellow Jackets was more potent than the Bulldogs bite on this night. Hayesville held Murphy to just five third-quarter points, and the game was out of reach in the opening moments of the third quarter. Going on to win 77-50 Hayesville stays undefeated and comes up with a regular-season sweep over their rivals.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Jake Mctaggart 29 points
Ethan Hooper 11 points
Kolbe Ashe 10 points
Logan Caldwell 10 points
Kyle Lunsford 8 points
Postgame Interview with Jake Mctaggart:
Be aware Hayesville fans, the Yellow Jackets game today against Franklin has been postponed/canceled. The Yellow Jackets will next play on Tuesday, February 1st, in a critical conference matchup at Swain. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest Team FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Fall to Murphy
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports January 29, 2022
On Friday evening, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets took on a very tough opponent. The Murphy Lady Bulldogs are 2X defending state champions and currently sit first in the Smoky Mountain Conference. Murphy backed up their lofty credentials, controlling the action all game long and winning the game easily 51-27.
Senior Breanna Cothren looks for an open teammate.
1st Half:
The game was dictated by the Lady Bulldogs early, and their offense was rolling. As the Lady the Bulldog offense was cruising, the Lady Yellow Jackets offense was running on fumes. One bright spot for Hayesville on the night was their handling of the Lady Bulldogs’ full-court pressure. The Lady Yellow Jackets have struggled all season facing full and half-court traps. Yet even against one of the conference’s best pressing teams, Hayesville handled as well as they had all season. Yet even with their ability to break the press, their offense simply couldn’t get shots to fall. The Lady Bulldogs would go into halftime leading 36-10.
2nd Half:
Murphy called off the dogs, so to speak, in the second half with their star players only playing the first few minutes of the third quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets offense still was great but was better in the second half. In fact, they outscored Murphy in the second half. Give credit to Hayesville as it appeared that the game was quickly heading towards a running clock at halftime. Hayesville’s younger players like Breanna Abrams, Mallory Peck, and a few others were responsible for keeping the game from getting to that running clock threshold.
Hayesville Leading Scorer:
Lila Payne 10 points
Note for Hayesville fans the Lady Yellow Jackets game today against Franklin has been postponed/canceled. The Lady Yellow Jackets will next play on Tuesday, February 1st, at Swain in a critical conference matchup. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest Team FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Yellow Jackets Dominate Hiwassee Dam
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports January 13, 2022
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets continued their fantastic undefeated run, winning a non-conference game Tuesday night. They traveled to play at Hiwassee Dam, a notoriously tough home court gym. The Yellow Jackets held a slight lead for the first half but blew it wide open in the second half. Hayesville would go on to win 95-54 and beat the Eagles for the third time this season.
Isaac Chandler makes a free throw.
1st Half:
As mentioned, the first half was close with Hiwassee Dam as the Eagles shot better than typical in the first half. Yet as mentioned, Hiwassee Dam has one of the better home-court advantages in the entire state and always has incredible community support regardless of record. In the first half, Hayesville also struggled with foul trouble and had several starters on the bench with two fouls. At one point, Hayesville led by as little as eight with about three minutes in the second quarter. A solid run to end the half, though, would give the Yellow Jackets a 50-33 at halftime.
2nd Half:
Hayesville would come out in the second half, tighten the defensive screws, and have their way with the Eagles. Hayesville’s offense was nearly unstoppable all night as they scored a season-high 95 points. Hayesville had seven players with over 7-points and an excellent balanced team effort. The Yellow Jackets also had nine three-pointers made with a team-high three from the corner sniper Asher Brown. Hayesville would go on to win in an utterly dominating fashion 95-54.
Taylor McClure drills one from three point range.
Leading Hayesville Scorers:
Jake McTaggart 24 points
Kolbe Ashe 18 points
Asher Brown 13 Points
Jacob McClure 10 points
Taylor McClure 9 points
Cade Denton 8 points
Kyle Lunsford 7 points
Postgame Interview with Jake McTaggart:
Up Next:
FYI for fans of Hayesville, the home games scheduled on Friday with Franklin have been postponed. The Hayesville Yellow Jackets will next play at Blue Ridge on Tuesday, January 18th, in a non-conference matchup. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest Team FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Fall in Rematch with HD
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports January 13, 2022
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to the farthest west school in the state on Tuesday night. They took on the Hiwassee Dam Lady Eagles in an earlier season contest rematch. Hayesville won the first matchup of the year at home. The Lady Eagles were too much on Tuesday night as they defeated Hayesville 53-28.
Mallory Peck knocks down a free throw.
1st Half:
The Lady Yellow Jackets held tough in the first quarter but struggled to finish offensively. They had several point-blank looks at the basket that rimmed out. That allowed Hiwassee Dam to take the first quarter lead 10-7. Hayesville offensive woes continued in the second quarter, and Hiwassee Dam started to heat up and stretched out their early lead. By halftime, the Lady Eagles led the Lady Yellow Jackets 23-13.
2nd Half:
The second half was similar to the first for both teams, as Hiwassee Dam put together a complete four-quarter effort. At the same time, Hayesville did some things well but continued to struggle offensively. That has been the story of Hayesville’s season; some nights, they shoot it well, put up points, and compete with most teams. Their rebounding, play execution,, and defensive effort have been solid all year. The offensive has been a roller coaster, though with many ups and downs. With that said, the Lady Eagles were able to secure the victory defending their home court, winning 53-28.
Lila Payne sets up the Lady Yellow Jacket offense
Up Next:
FYI for fans of Hayesville, the home games scheduled on Friday with Franklin have been postponed. The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets will next play at Blue Ridge on Tuesday, January 18th, in a non-conference matchup. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest Team FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Win Top 10 Matchup in OT
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 22, 2021
On Tuesday night, the Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Swain Maroon Devils in a primetime matchup. These two teams are the presumptive top two teams in the conference, and they played like it. Regulation was simply not enough as the two teams fought incredibly hard all night. In overtime, Hayesville dominated and quickly put the game away, winning 68-57.
1st Quarter:
The Yellow Jackets and Maroon Devils both started slowly, with each only having a few possessions over the first three minutes. Neither team was pushing the pace, and both were feeling their way into the game. Hayesville scored first and wouldn’t relinquish the lead all quarter. Led by Jake Mctaggart, who had five first-quarter points, Haysville would lead 11-10 at the end of the 1st quarter.
Junior Ethan Hooper makes a free throw.
2nd Quarter:
The pace would quicken in the second quarter, with both teams starting to find their scoring groove. In the quarter, the Yellow Jackets would get two huge threes from Ethan Hooper. Hooper has struggled with his shot at times this year but appeared to break out of the mini-slump. He had some clutch moments for Hayesville on the night. Hayesville would stretch their lead out to almost double digits in the quarter. However, it all changed when Asher Brown picked up his second foul, putting him on the bench. He had been guarding Donnavin Groenewold, who was scoreless to that point. He would immediately go on a solo 8-0 run to pull Swain close. Going into halftime, Hayesville would lead 28-24.
3rd Quarter:
Hayesville would be ice cold in the third quarter. Arctic cold scoring a season-low five points in the third quarter. Swain would get up as many as six in the quarter. Thankfully Taylor McClure would hit a big three as time expired in the third quarter. This would pull Hayesville within three, trailing 36-33 going into the fourth quarter.
Senior Kolbe Ashe makes a beautiful pull up jumper.
4th Quarter:
The Yellow Jackets would come out firing in the third quarter and quickly regain the lead. The Yellow Jackets would score more points in the first 40 seconds of the fourth quarter than they did the entire third quarter. In the quarter, Hayesville would get six points from Kolbe Ashe, eight from Mctaggart, who also had a highlight-reel dunk in traffic. It looked like those two would help Hayesville secure a tight victory. Swain, though would make a miracle bank shot three as time expired. This would force overtime.
Overtime:
The overtime period was all Hayesville. Hayesville head coach Michael Cottrell said, “overtime showed a glimpse of the type of team we can be.” Hayesville cruised to victory, scoring 15 in the four-minute overtime period. Winning the game 68-57, Hayesville stays undefeated on the season.
Junior Logan Caldwell makes a big corner three.
Postgame Q&A with Hayesville Head Coach Michael Cottrell:
Q: Tell us your thoughts on the game; they hit a big bank shot three to force overtime?
A: Yes, they did, and you know we usually come up with that rebound; that’s what we do is come up with big plays. We didn’t, though, and they hit a tough shot. I like the way we won; I like going into overtime, taking over the game, and playing like we are capable of.
Q: Your not an excuse maker, and you’re through a tough stretch with a bit of break coming up. Your team, though, has been sick with lots of kids getting over the flu, some have missed games, and one missed the game tonight and have had a starter injured. With a lot of your guys not 100%, what does it say about your team to be able to win three games in five days?
A: We have learned a lot about our team right now; we have had a lot of adversity and have not had our whole team together all year. I look forward to having our entire team back soon; Kyle Lunsford has been hurt all year. He is close to back. We’re hopeful we will get some minutes out of him at the Christmas tournament, get him some small minutes, and work him back in. Logan Caldwell was very sick with that flu, and it takes some time to get your stamina back. Our team has shown a lot of character. I am really pleased it’s kind of what they did during the summertime, too; it has become an identity for us, we’re going to gut it out with you, and we’re not afraid to do that.
Interview with Junior Guard Ethan Hooper:
Game Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O20nB0cHjYE
The Yellow Jackets’ next play starting the Swain Christmas tournament on Tuesday, December 28th. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Offense Sputter in Loss to Swain
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 21, 2021
Tuesday night, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Swain Lady Maroon Devils. The Lady Yellow Jackets struggled offensively all night and had a hard time getting shots to fall. While they played great defense, Swain continually built their lead quarter by quarter. A big fourth-quarter run put the game away in Swain’s favor winning 41-27.
Senior Kaylee Leatherwood makes a post move to score.
1st Half:
The Lady Yellow Jackets were plagued by a slow start, playing great defense but couldn’t get any shots to fall offensively. They held Swain to 10 points in the first quarter but only managed a meager two points themselves. Trailing going into the 2nd quarter, Hayesville’s offense was still running on fumes. They did triple their output, but that was still only six points. While their defense was still solid, Swain was able to further extend their lead to 19-8 at halftime.
2nd Half:
The Yellow Jackets got it back to single digits early in the third quarter trailing by eight at one point. A late quarter run by Swain, though, put the game back to double digits. The Lady Jackets would go into the fourth quarter trailing 26-15. Hayesville had their best offensive quarter of the game in the fourth. It was too little too late, though, as the Lady Maroon Devils had built an insurmountable lead. Hayesville would lose 41-27 in this last game before Christmas break.
Junior Lila Roberts throws a pass to Cecilia Jones.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 9 points
Kaylee Leatherwood 9 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets’ next play starting the Swain Christmas tournament on Tuesday, December 28th. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Yellow Jackets Cruise to Victory Over Blue Ridge
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 20, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets boys basketball team hosted the Blue Ridge Bobcats for the second time this season. It is odd to see two teams play three times in a year, but because of Nantahalla’s lack of a boys team this year, both teams found themselves looking for an extra game. This matchup was very similar to the first, as Hayesville dominated every quarter, winning 68-18.
Junior Ethan Hooper lines up a three.
1st Half Recap:
As mentioned, Hayesville was able to force their will from the opening tip. The Yellow Jackets got started quickly, with every player getting into the game in the first quarter. Six of those players scored in the first quarter as Hayesville had a balanced attack. This allowed them to lead 27-7 at the end of the first quarter. Hayesville’s defense got even tighter in the second quarter, only allowing two measly points. While the offense put up 21 points and at halftime, Hayesville led 48-9.
2nd Half Recap:
The Yellow Jackets would continue their domination in the second half. Scoring on their first possession would put Hayesville up by over 40 and start the running clock. This made the second half move very quickly. Every single Yellow Jacket would score in this game, with six different players having over seven points. The highlight of the second half was the end of the 4th quarter when Junior Seth Hedden threw down a tomahawk dunk that brought the bench and crowd to their feet. Those were the game’s last points, as Hayesville would win 68-18.
Junior Seth Hedden getting warmed up, attacking the rim.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Landon Hughes 12 points
Seth Hedden 10 points
Jacob McClure 9 points
Cade Denton 9 points
Ethan Hooper 8 points
Kolbe Ashe 7 points
The Yellow Jackets’ next play is on Tuesday, December 21st, when they host the Swain Maroon Devils (the game will be live on fyntv.com). To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Dominate Blue Ridge
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 20, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jacket basketball team hosted the Bobcats of Blue Ridge Monday night. The Lady Bobcats really challenged Hayesville in the first half. With only six players, they ran out of gas in the second half. The Lady Yellow Jackets would force their will in the second half, going on to win 60-36.
Junior Lila Roberts sets up the offense.
1st Half Recap:
Hayesville and Blue Ridge battled in the first quarter, with the Lady Yellow Jackets perhaps surprised by the Lady Bobcats offensive punch. Mahalah Stewart hit two deep threes in the first quarter, keeping the score close. Hayesville would lead 14-10 after the first quarter. Hayesville would continue to increase their lead methodically. They were led by Lila Payne, who had four first-half threes to help Hayesville to a comfortable 28-19 lead at halftime.
2nd Half Recap:
The third quarter was all Hayesville though, making adjustments at halftime seemed to do the trick. The Yellow Jackets held the Lady Bobcats to just three points in the third quarter. At the same time, they were lighting it up and scored 19 points of their own to take complete control and lead 47 to 22 at the end of the third quarter. The fourth quarter with a big lead saw Hayesville clear the bench and get valuable minutes for many of their subs. Hayesville would get outscored by one in the fourth quarter. Their lead, though, was insurmountable, as the Lady Yellow Jackets would go on to win 60-36.
Senior Cecilia Jones feeds a pass into the post.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 21 points
Mallory Peck 12 points
Cecilia Jones 9 points
Kaylee Leatherwood 9 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets’ next play on Tuesday, December 21st, when they host the Swain Lady Maroon Devils (the game will be live on fyntv.com). To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Wins Thriller at Rival Murphy
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 18, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets went to Murphy on Friday night, taking on the Bulldogs in a crucial conference matchup. It was a physical battle, with things getting a little chippy at times, as expected in a rivalry game like this. Hayesville would deliver the last blow, though. The Yellow Jackets picked up a big win as they continued to work to defend their conference championship. It was closer than expected, 58-55, but Hayesville players and fans alike were happy to find a way to win a conference road game.
Hayesville’s Ethan Hooper makes a first-quarter three.
1st Quarter:
The game was tight all the way through, with the lead never getting to double digits for either team. The first quarter was back and forth, with Murphy leading for most of the quarter. Then, there were several lead changes in the closing moments of the quarter. A three by Ethan Hooper followed by a layup as time expired by Kolbe Ashe gave Hayesville a 15-14 lead to end the quarter. Ashe led the way for Hayesville in the quarter with seven points to lead all scorers.
Hayesville’s Asher Brown knocks down a free throw.
2nd Quarter:
This game was an absolute battle and the second quarter just continued the heavyweight fight. It was an excellent game for fans to watch, and both fan bases were into the game. The second quarter alone had five lead changes, but Murphy started to build their lead midway through the quarter. They led 32-28 with only 48 seconds left in the quarter. Somehow though, Hayesville found a way to lead at the end of the quarter, as they had a strong finish for the second straight quarter. A tough contested jump shot by Asher Brown followed up by a three from Taylor McClure with five seconds left gave Hayesville a 33-32 lead at the half.
3rd Quarter:
The Yellow Jackets started to take control of the game in the third quarter. It looked like, at times, they may start to put the game out of reach. Every time, though, Murphy would find a way to get a bucket to stop the Yellow Jacket run. Jake Mctaggart had eight second-quarter points and followed up with nine in the third quarter. Mctaggart was a force on Friday night, and Murphy has one of the bigger teams in the area. That didn’t matter to Mctaggart, though as no matter what Bulldog big man rotated onto him, they got dominated. Hayesville would go into the last quarter leading 44-39.
Hayesville’s Kolbe Ashe knocks down a free throw.
4th Quarter:
Hayesville could never pull away from the Bulldogs, and Murphy actually took a fourth quarter lead off a big three with about six minutes left. Hayesville would tie back up pretty quickly, but that would not be the last lead change. Murphy’s overly physical play would start to bite them, though, as 6 of Hayesville’s 14 fourth-quarter points came off free throws. The only points they had from the field in the fourth quarter were from Mctaggart, who had four huge field goals inside the paint in the fourth quarter. Murphy had a chance to tie with about 3 seconds left, but their contested three-point shot went off the back rim, sealing the Hayesville victory.
Game Highlights:
https://youtu.be/qgcgzmyNJXY
Game Leading Scorers:
Jake Mctaggart 25 points (Hayesville)
Hunter Laney 16 points (Murphy)
Dillian Brown 15 points (Murphy)
Kolbe Ashe 13 points (Hayesville)
Asher Brown 9 points (Hayesville)
Hayesville’s Jake Mctaggart finishes through contact for 2 of his 25 points.
Game Notes:
On Friday night, Hayesville was without two starters and had several players recovering from illness (non-Covid related).
Jake Mctaggart was genuinely dominant for the Yellow Jackets on Friday night, which was needed as Hayesville battled through missing players and not feeling their best. Murphy had no answer for him all night long. Mctaggart finished with 25 points, 19 rebounds, and 7 blocks.
The environment at Murphy was incredible, with both crowds incredibly loud all night long. It felt like the first great SMC crowd since before the pandemic.
This game improved Hayesville to 2-0 in the conference.
Hayesville’s boy’s team has not lost a conference or regular-season game since 2/11/20.
Post Game Interview with Hayesville’s Jake Mctaggart:
The Yellow Jackets’ next play is on Monday, December 20th, when they host the Blue Ridge Bobcats (the game will be live on fyntv.com). To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Fall to Murphy
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 17, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to take on the two-time defending state champion Murphy Lady Bulldogs. Hayesville hung tough in the first half and looked to give Murphy a game. The second half was a different story, though, as the Lady Bulldogs heated up and stretched out their lead. Turnovers and rebounding troubles plagued the Lady Yellow Jackets. Murphy would go on to win 67-37.
Hayesville senior Cecilia Jones drives to the basket.
1st Half:
The Lady Yellow Jackets came out firing in the first quarter, specifically Lila Payne, who had five early points for Hayesville. Hayesville actually had an early 8-6 lead, but Murphy went on a seven-point run to take a 13-8 lead at the end of the first quarter. Murphy started to really get it going in the second quarter and stretched out their lead. The Lady Bulldogs press really bothered Hayesville, and it forced double-digit turnovers on the night. By halftime, Murphy had taken a commanding lead 33-17.
Hayesville junior Lila Roberts sizes up her defender.
2nd Half:
Hayesville just never got their offense going, and they only managed eight third-quarter points. While the Lady Bulldogs got hot and put the game out of reach in the third quarter. Their four threes in the third quarter helped them build their lead to 53-25. As mentioned, Murphy’s post players did a great job rebounding. They had double-digit offensive rebounds on the night, and when they weren’t scoring on their first shot, they were scoring on the extra chances. Overall each team probably shot similarly from the floor, but all the steals and offensive boards accounted for the differential in Murphy’s favor. Put all this together, and it adds up to Murphy’s 67-37 win.
Game Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 22 points (Hayesville)
Lailee Holloway 14 points (Murphy)
Torin Rogers 14 points (Murphy)
Mallory Peck 9 points (Hayesville)
Hayesville freshman Mallory Peck knocks down a free throw.
The Lady Yellow Jackets’ next play on Monday, December 20th, when they host the Blue Ridge Lady Bobcats (the game will be live on fyntv.com). To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done, tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Boys Team Picks Up 1st Conference Win
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 14, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Andrews Wildcats on Monday night. Everyone knows that over the past few seasons the Andrews and Hayesville games have provided some fireworks and instant classic type games. This one did not quite live up to some of those lofty standards. Yet it was a very good game and stayed close until the fourth quarter. Hayesville was just too much though and started to pull away later in the game. Protecting home court Hayesville would win 59-35.
1st half:
Hayesville got off to a good start early and almost stretched their lead to double digits in the opening moments of the game. Andrews did a great job though fighting back and two big threes from Isaac Weaver made it close as the first quarter came to a close. Going into the second quarter Hayesville had a 16-11 lead. They would continue to stretch the lead out point by point. A big part of it was due to their defense, it absolutely stifled the Wildcat offense. Andrews was given no easy looks and Hayesville did a great job rebounding to not give Andrews second chances. Only giving up five points in the second quarter Hayesville would go into halftime with a controlling 31-16 lead.
Hayesville’s Jake Mctaggart recognized pregame for scoring his 1000th point as a Yellow Jacket.
2nd Half:
Andrews struggled with foul trouble in the first half and had several players pick up two fouls forcing them to the bench. Including one of their stars Cameron Rattler, who they welcomed him back to the floor in the third quarter. He had a big impact and looked to try and help Andrews back in the game. His seven third-quarter points were big but the rest of the Wildcats had gone cold. Once again though that was partly due to Hayesville’s incredible defense. The small push that Rattler provided was not enough and Hayesville continued to increase the lead. With a 48-26 lead going into the fourth quarter Hayesville would cruise to victory. The fourth quarter did not provide much action other than Hayesville finishing on their fourth straight win by the score of 59-35.
Game Leading Scorers:
Isaac Weaver 14 points (Andrews)
Logan Caldwell 13 points (Hayesville)
Asher Brown 12 points (Hayesville)
Taylor McClure 10 points (Hayesville)
Jake McTaggart 10 points (Hayesville)
Game Highlights:
https://youtu.be/l_eFnqMbO7k
Hayesville will next play on Friday, December 17th, as they will travel to Murphy in an important conference game. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville’s Girls Win 2nd Straight
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 14, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets took part in their second game in as many nights. This time hosting the Lady Wildcats of Andrews. Hayesville took early control of the game but Andrews fought back in the third quarter. Lila Payne led the Lady Yellow Jackets on a big scoring run early in the fourth quarter to put the game away. Hayesville would go on to win their first conference matchup of the year, 40-25.
1st half:
The Lady Yellow Jackets got out to a quick start and took an early lead on the Lady Wildcats. Hayesville’s press really bothered Andrews and forced a ton of turnovers in the first half. Andrews’ offense was actually pretty decent when they were not turning it over. Hayesville’s pressure defense allowed for them to get some easy baskets though, and by the end of the first quarter, they led 17-5. The 2nd quarter was a different story as Hayesville’s offense went cold, getting held to only six points in the quarter. Yet great team defense held Andrews to only five points in the quarter. This allowed for Hayesville to increase their lead by one in the second quarter going into halftime up 23-10.
2nd Half:
Andrews fought hard in the third quarter and really looked to be on the comeback trail. They were playing great defense and started to have some shots fall. At one point they got it all the way down to a seven-point game. They outscored Hayesville by three in the quarter and went into the fourth quarter trailing just 30-20. Hayesville’s Lila Payne got hot for a stretch and her back-to-back threes were a backbreaker to the Andrews comeback attempt. Hayesville’s big fourth-quarter simply put the game out of reach and help them secure their second straight victory.
Game Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 16 points (Hayesville)
Emily Mealer 12 points (Andrews)
Breanna Cothren 9 points (Hayesville)
Cecilia Jones 8 points (Hayesville)
Game Highlights:
https://youtu.be/grnoHH63eCk
Hayesville will next play on Friday, December 17th, as they will travel to Murphy in an important conference game. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Yellow Jackets Boys and Girl Team Defend Home Court
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 14, 2021
The Hayesville boys and girls basketball teams both played at home, for the first time this season on Monday night. It was a great night to see a packed gym. With fans getting to see both varsity teams play with no restrictions on fans, on the same night in almost two years. The Yellow Jackets did not disappoint with both teams winning on the night. The Lady Yellow Jackets overcame a slow start to beat the Lady Eagles 52-42. While the boy’s team dominated for four quarters winning 81-41.
Girls Recap:
The Lady Yellow Jackets got off to a slow start allowing Hiwassee Dam to take the early lead. Hayesville fought back though getting contributions from multiple players. By the end of the first quarter, the Yellow Jackets trailed by just two points, 12-10. The second quarter had multiple lead changes yet Hayesville would find themselves trailing at halftime 22-19. The third quarter was all Hayesville though as they methodically took control taking a 36-32 lead. Even with the lead, Hayesville stayed aggressive and instead of trying to kill the clock to stretch their lead out. This allowed to them finish off the Lady Eagles winning 52-42.
Boys Recap:
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets looked to be in mid-season form against the Hiwassee Dam Eagles. They controlled the game from tip-off to the final whistle, outscoring Hiwassee Dam in all four quarters. Every single Yellow Jacket scored for the second game in a row and that has happened in three out of four games this season. At the half, the Yellow Jackets were leading 41 to 22 and had already put the game out of reach. Kolbe Ashe led the way as usual scoring 11 all in the second quarter by halftime. Asher Brown also had five points by halftime including a beautiful 3 point play where he finished through contact and made the free throw. The second half was much of the same, with Hayesville’s dictating the game and never looking in doubt. Hayesville would improve to 4-0 winning 81-41.
Hayesville Yellow Jackets dominate Highlands
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 11, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets boys team traveled to play Highlands in a non conference matchup Friday night. Hayesville was without a few players but it did not hurt them in this matchup. Hayesville was in control from start to finish, defeating the Highlanders 59-26.
1st Quarter:
It was a little bit of a slow start for the Yellow Jackets but Kolbe Ashe made sure Hayesville took an early lead. He had the Yellow Jackets’ first 8 points of the night including two corner threes. Hayesville’s great defense though was big in the first quarter as they held Highlands to only five points. This allowed the Yellow Jackets to head into the second quarter leading 10-5.
2nd Quarter:
Sometimes when you travel to higher elevations and small gyms like Highlands your offense isn’t always great off the bus. You know what they say though, defense travels. While Hayesville was waiting on the offense to come, their defense had Highlands locked down. Highlands did not score until 3:15 left in the quarter. While that happened the offense was finding their footing, particularly on the fast break. By halftime Hayesville had a healthy 35-12 lead at halftime, Kolbe Ashe already had 19 points.
3rd Quarter:
Hayesville picked up where they left off before halftime with their offense humming. Give Highlands credit though they played better in the third quarter. They just did not have enough to match the Yellow Jackets. Even with their best offensive output of the night the Yellow Jackets still outscored the Highlanders. Hayesville would take a commanding lead into the fourth quarter leading 48-23.
4th Quarter:
With the game out of reach, the fourth quarter was a little sloppy with both teams subbing frequently. Hayesville got good contributions though from pretty much every player in this quarter. Playing without 2 of their players tonight allowed Hayesville to give some other players opportunities they might not have gotten otherwise. Building that depth could pay off big time down the road. What was also good to see is even with reserves in the game, they held Highlands to only three fourth quarter points. The Yellow Jackets outscored Highlands in all four quarters winning 59-26.
Game Highlights:
https://youtu.be/1rjqkdG3Ku0
Leading Scorers:
Kolbe Ashe 22 points
Logan Caldwell 12 points
Hayesville next plays on Monday, December 13th at home, hosting Hiwassee Dam (game will be broadcast live on fyntv.com). To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets Win in Dominating Fashion
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 9, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets girls basketball team took the long trip to play Nantahala on Tuesday evening. It was the only game of the evening as Nantahala only has a girls team this year. The Lady Yellow Jackets played well and were in complete control of the game winning 80-29.
Game Recap:
It was a hot start for the Lady Yellow Jackets who dominated from tip off in the first quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets had 24 first quarter points to just 10 from Nantahala. The second quarter was much of the same as the Lady Yellow Jackets stretched their lead out to 42-18. Hayesville seniors Lila Payne and Cecelia Jones had 14 and 12 points respectively in the first half alone. The second half was much of the same as Hayesville stretched their lead out to over 40 points. With the lead and a running clock the second half was a quick one. It was good to see some of the younger players get big minutes and perform well though. Freshman Mallory Peck had a great game scoring 14 points and Breanna Abrams had 6 points in the fourth quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets would go on to win in a landslide 80-29.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 20 points
Cecelia Jones 14 points
Mallory Peck 14 points
Game Highlights:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BzUXCyc2cAY
Yellow Jackets Win Overtime Thriller
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 4, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets took the court in their second game of the season on Friday Night. It really felt like the first true game though, or at least a game with a formidable opponent. The Tallulah Falls Indians came into the game 4-0 and ranked in the top ten of Georgia 1A. They gave the Yellow Jackets all they wanted and then some, with the game going into overtime. Hayesville was able to pull it out, dominating the overtime period to win 53-49.
1st Quarter:
The game couldn’t have got off to a better start for Hayesville as they stormed out to an 11-0 lead. Hayesville looked like the team that had already played multiple games this season even though it was Tallulah Falls that came into the game 4-0. The Yellow Jackets did not show much rust. Of course their great team defense led to some really good looks in transition. Tallulah Falls didn’t score for the first time until 2:02 left in the 1st quarter. Yet they were able to claw their way back towards the end of the quarter aided by a three made at the buzzer to end the quarter trailing 14-12.
2nd Quarter:
From this point forward the game was back and forth for its entirety with lots of lead changes. The second quarter saw both teams turn up the defense in a major way. Hayesville only managed six points in the quarter but held the Indians to just seven. Hayesville probably had the opportunity to score more and had some really good looks. Yet they showed some of that early season rust that they avoided in the 1st quarter missing some jumpers that typically go in. Even with the shooting struggles they were able to take a 20-19 lead into halftime.
3rd Quarter:
The third quarter could have been simply labeled the Kolbe Ashe show. He scored all fifteen of the Yellow Jackets third quarter points. He single-handedly matched Tallulah Falls’ output as they scored fifteen points in the third quarter. Ashe hit three triples in the quarter followed by three two point buckets. Thanks to Ashe, Hayesville was able to keep their one point margin leading 35-34 going into the 4th quarter.
4th Quarter:
As the third quarter was the Kolbe Ashe show the 4th quarter belonged to Jake Mctaggart. Mctaggart came alive, hitting a tough bucket inside and drawing a foul to make it a 3-point play. His next basket was incredible as he dribbled through traffic then took a hop step before throwing down a one handed dunk. Mctaggart scored all 12 fourth quarter points for the Yellow Jackets to force overtime after being down as many as five in the 4th quarter. Tied up at 47 we were in for some free basketball.
Overtime:
Hayesville dominated the four minute overtime period as the Yellow Jackets held the Indians to just two points. While scoring six of their own they were fairly comfortable coming down the stretch. The Yellow Jackets would win 53-49 to pick up their second win of the season.
Game Notes:
- The Tallulah Falls gym was very small but they had a big student section and Hayesville was able to handle a very tough environment.
- Hayesville definitely did not get any benefits from the referees playing out of state. Two Yellow Jackets fouled out while another received a technical after being thrown to the floor by an Indians player.
- The Yellow Jackets defense was incredible on a night where every possession mattered. Hayesville gave up very easy baskets while coming up with some big steals to give themselves some easy baskets.
Postgame Interview with Kolbe Ashe:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ySz8ZNCszyU
Postgame Quotes from head coach Michael Cottrell:
“I thought it was a good win on the road”
“This was really the first test we had this season, and this a really good team in the state of Georgia”
“We didn’t really shoot it well but that could be a good sign of what we can be when we do shoot it well”
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 26 points
Jake Mctaggart: 18 points
Ethan Hooper: 8 points
Hayesville will next play on Friday December 10th on the road at Highlands. To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest FYN sports coverage on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports