Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets Lose in Season Opener
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports December 3, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets opened the season with a very difficult opponent in Tallulah Falls. Hayesville played them really tough in the first half and started to run out of gas in the second half. It is to be expected considering Tallulah Falls had played four games this season while this was Hayesville’s first. There were a lot of positives to take away for the Lady Yellow Jackets in the game. Yet they would lose their season opener 70-34.
1st Half:
Hayesville was ice cold in the first quarter and that allowed Tallulah Falls to take a lead early. While Tallulah had 17 first quarter points including 13 from Danika Lightbourne Hayesville only managed 6. Those six points came from Lila Payne off of two three point makes. The second quarter was a different story as the Lady Yellow Jackets got their legs underneath them and played right with the Indians. Both teams had 18 points in the quarter but Tallulah’s first quarter margin would be carried into halftime. Hayesvilles got balanced scoring in the quarter with five players contributing including Payne and Lila Roberts each hitting a pair of threes.
2nd Half:
You could tell in the second half the Lady Yellow Jackets were just unable to keep up with the speed of Tallulah Falls. It may be different when the Indians come to Hayesville later in the year. You could tell the Indians already 4 games into their season were in a little more conditioned in the second half. They were able to extend their lead that was just 11 at halftime to up 31 by the end of the quarter. Then with a large lead the fourth quarter went quickly. Tallulah Falls were able to extend their lead even further and the game was out of reach. The Indians strong second half propelled them to a 70-34 victory.
Game Notes:
- Hayesville’s strong second quarter was a very positive sign for the young team. If they can build on those successes and continue to get some scoring from their young players it bode well for games in the future.
- Lila Payne had a strong 1st half scoring 12 but defensive adjustments from the Indians held her scoreless in the second half.
- The young post players Mallory Peck and Brooke Graves showed lots of promise. They can definitely take positives out of their play to build on.
Leading Hayesville Scorers:
Lila Payne: 12 points
Lila Roberts: 8 points
Breanna Cothren: 6 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets next play at home against the Nantahala Lady Hawks on Tuesday December 7th. 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 Lady Yellow Jackets basketball Season Preview
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports November 29, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets come into the season with quite a few unknowns. With experienced head coach Chad McClure at the helm though expect the Lady Yellow Jackets to surprise some folks. They have a couple solid pieces in Lila Payne and Lila Roberts, it will just be a matter of some young players emerging. A tough schedule and competitive conference may mean they take a few bumps along the way. Yet come playoff time they could be a tough out.
Last Year’s Team:
A very challenging year having to deal with the strange Covid season was part of the reason the Lady Yellow Jackets struggled. Going just 4-10 on the year the Lady Yellow Jackets took a step back having their first losing season in 5 years. They did have a strong core of seniors including Lizzy Brusini, Jocelin Buckner, Madison Ellison, Brianna Foster, and Kynnly McClure.
This Years Team:
Hayesville does bring back the strong guard duo of Payne and Roberts who will be surrounded by a very young team otherwise. Lila Payne leads the way for the senior class that is made up of four seniors in total. Payne is the only senior though that has seen significant playing time and the Lady Yellow Jackets will need the others to step up. Players like Cecilia Jones, Kaylee Leatherwood and Breanna Cothren. They also have three newcomers to the program who they will look to get big contributions from as the year goes on. A sophomore Maple Mackey and two freshmen Mallory Peck, and Brooke Graves.
Conference:
- Robbinsville (11-1) 2. Murphy (10-2) 3. Rosman (7-5) 4. Cherokee (7-5) 5. Swain (4-8) 6. Hayesville (3-9) 7. Andrews (0-12)
With Rosman no longer in the conference, the Big Smoky Mtn conference is now made up of 6 teams. Robbinsville and Murphy will once again probably fight it out for first place. While both are also state championship contenders. Cherokee is always strong and will look to fight their way into one of the top two spots. Swain returns quite a bit and could be a team we see take a big step forward. To fight back to the top half of the conference the Lady Yellow Jackets will need some players to step up around Payne and Roberts.
Schedule Notes:
-Away at Tallulah Falls on Dec 3rd season opener and home against Tallulah Falls January 22nd (live on fyntv.com)
-Away against Murphy December 17th and home against Murphy January 28th (live one fyntv.com)
-Home against Swain December 21st (live on fyntv.com) and away at Swain February 1st.
-Christmas tournament at Swain Co. December 28th, 29th, and 30th open the tournament against Mtn Heritage on December 28th.
-Away at Robbinsville on January 7th and home against Robbinsville on February 8th (last home game of season, will be live on fyntv.com)
-Conference tournament at Swain February 10th through the 18th
Full Schedule can be found at:
Preseason interview with coach Chad McClure:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_1acOPM0WT8
Expectations & Goals:
The Lady Yellow Jackets play in the toughest 1A girls conference in the entire state. With that said it would probably be tough for them to compete for a conference championship. Yet they do have some really good young players who if they emerge, finding themselves in the top half of the conference is not unrealistic. As well, Chad McClure is the longest tenured coach in the conference and always has a few tricks up his sleeve. His team’s defense has long helped keep them in games and if they can hit shots down the stretch they could pull off several upsets this year.
Yellow Jackets Win Home Opener
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports November 23, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets men’s basketball team opened their season at home last night against the Bobcats of Blue Ridge. Coming into the game most expected that the Yellow Jackets were the superior team. They proved that to be true, while they did get off to a slow start it did not last for long. Every player on the team scored and Hayesville got the season started off right winning 74-24.
1st Quarter:
The Yellow Jackets season started off with Kyle Lunsford winning the tip which was promptly followed by a Kolbe Ashe three pointer. Hayesville would never trail after this but the offense did get off to a slow start. The Yellow Jackets were getting some good looks but had several shot rim out, in the first quarter. The second quarter was a different story as the Hayesville offense started to hum.
2nd Quarter:
Logan Caldwell was the one that got the Yellow Jackets going. First he hit a three then stole the ensuing inbound pass, hit a layup and got fouled, making the free throw afterwards. This little 6-0 run all by himself sparked the Yellow Jackets. Hayesville went from being up 5 with 6:25 left in the 2nd quarter to up to up 16 with 5:00 left to play in the second quarter. From this point forward it was all smooth sailing for the Yellow Jackets who went into halftime up 37 to 12.
3rd Quarter:
Hayesville was hot from three in the third quarter getting several from the wing duo of Ethan Hooper and Logan Caldwell. Kolbe Ashe had a quiet night from his standards but his passing was on point all game long. Really the whole team moved the ball really well and it was good to see lots of unselfish play. A Jake Mctaggart dunk with 3:22 left in the third quarter stretched the lead to 40. This started the running clock and Hayesville would finish the quarter up 61-15.
4th Quarter:
As mentioned the lead was over 40 for Hayesville so the running clock made for a very quick 4th quarter. Hayesville had many reserves on the game for this 4th quarter and saw them extend the lead even more. This Hayesville team is very deep and have several players that may not always see regular time but showed on this night that when needed they can contribute. Both Jacob McClure and Seth Hedden provided some good scoring in the fourth quarter for the Yellow Jackets. Overall it was a good opening night for Hayesville winning 74-24.
Game Highlights:
https://fyntv.net/article/hayesville-v-s-blue-ridge-boys-basketball-11-22-21/
Full Game Replay:
https://fyntv.net/?bfplayvid=328055
The Yellow Jackets next play at Tallulah Falls on Friday December 3rd in what should be a primetime matchup. 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 Basketball Season Preview
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports November 21, 2021
The Hayesville boys basketball team is used to coming into the season with high expectations. With coach Michael Cottrell at helm, Hayesville’s is always competing for conference championships it seems. Coming off three straight conference championships and an undefeated season last year. The Hayesville Yellow Jackets are expected to not only win conference again this year but take a step beyond it. You may ask what is that next step? Simply put it is a state championship, and the Yellow Jackets are not shying away from those expectations. Just ask their star Kolbe Ashe, we have covered both his commitment and signing this fall. In both of those interviews he has made it very clear that leading this team to a state championship is the goal.
Last Year’s Team:
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets went 14-0 in the regular season last year winning the conference championship outright for the third straight year. Coming into the year they lost several transfers for Covid reasons and many expected them to take a step back. Those that thought that were dead wrong, all it did was give Kolbe Ashe a chance to take his game to the next level. He was surrounded by a solid 7-man senior class that will be missed. Especially Blake McClure and Brady Shook, who were starters as well as high level contributors. Also gone from last year’s team are Paul White, Eli Roberts, Jose Espinal, Tyler Jones, and Rudy Seaker.
This Year’s Team:
The team does bring back four players from last year’s team, Kolbe Ashe, the returning conference player of the year. Along with returning starter Kyle Lunsford, and part-time starter/big minute guys from last year Logan Caldwell and Asher Brown. A big storyline from the offseason was also the return of Jake Mctaggart, who is back after one year at Towns County. That one year away was a good one for Mctaggart as he won a state championship there and was the playoff MVP. That experience could be very valuable for a team who is looking to make a big run of their own this year. As well, several players will be moving up from last year’s JV team that could end up providing important minutes. Last but not least the Yellow Jackets also got a transfer player who moved in, Ethan Hooper. Hooper has looked great in the preseason and could end up playing a big role once he acclimates to the team.
Conference:
Last year’s standings went in order – 1. Hayesville (12-0) 2. Murphy (8-4) 3. Swain (7-5) 4. Robbinsville (6-6) 4. Cherokee (6-6) 6. Andrews (3-9) 7. Rosman (0-12)
With Rosman no longer in the conference, the Big Smoky Mtn conference is now made up of 6 teams. Hayesville is the obvious favorite to win it again, but the rest of the conference could be a total toss up. Robbinsville and Swain both return a ton of players and could challenge Hayesville on any given night. Then you never know what players Cherokee may have brought in. Andrews and Murphy both have a lot of good athletes and could upset any team on the right night.
Schedule Notes:
-Open the season at home Nov 22nd hosting the Blue Ridge Bobcats. (game live on fyntv.com)
-Away at Tallulah Falls on Dec 3rd and home against Tallulah Falls January 22nd (live on fyntv.com)
-Home against Swain December 21st (live on fyntv.com) and away at Swain February 1st.
-Christmas tournament at Swain Co. December 28th, 29th, and 30th open the tournament against Mtn Heritage on December 28th.
-Away at Robbinsville on January 7th and home against Robbinsville on February 8th (last home game of season, will be live on fyntv.com)
-Home against Franklin on January 14th (live on fyntv.com).
-Conference tournament at Swain February 10th through the 18th
Full Schedule can be found at:
Preseason interview with coach:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HUM9SYu7x7E
Expectations & Goals:
It has already been stated that the goals are pretty clear, first win conference then make a run at a state championship. Hayesville’s team is very rare being that they have the conference’s last two players of the year. Both seniors this year Jake Mctaggart won it when they were sophomores and Kolbe Ashe won it last year as a Junior. They will be as good as a 1-2 punch this conference has ever seen. They are also surrounded by a great cast of characters who can be lethal shooting the three and play great defense. Also expect Kyle Lunsford to have a breakout year as the other post player. With Mctaggart drawing lots of attention, Lunsford will often find himself in great matchups against other teams’ 2nd big man. All in All this season has all the makings to be a special one. Could the Yellow Jackets be only the second men’s team to win a state championship from the Smoky Mtn Conference? Well Coach Cottrells 2001 Hayesville team was the first, and he will have this Hayesville team primed to make another run at it.
Hayesville Basketball Scrimmages Franklin
Hayesville Basketball, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports November 18, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets men’s and women’s basketball teams traveled to Franklin on Thursday for scrimmage action. The women’s game was first and the Lady Yellow Jackets played well, especially in the first half. When you consider the fact that they were playing a very good 3A school, their are many positives to take away from the game. The men’s game was next and it was as good as scrimmage action as you could find anywhere. Franklin is a 3A school that should compete to win their conference. While Hayesvilles is one of the favorites to win state in 1A. The game lived up to the billing and while there was no official score, it was very close and was played at a very fast pace.
Women’s Game:
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets are coming into the season with a very young team. They will play several freshmen this season and the team only has three seniors. The Lady Yellow Jackets did a lot of things well in this scrimmage. They also came away with some good things to work on. While the team struggled to score as a whole they were tough on defense. Team defense has always been a bit of a calling card for head coach Chad McClure. Their defense is good enough that if the team can find a little more scoring punch they could really surprise some people. On this night though the scoring was just not there though and attributed to what ended up being a double-digit loss. Give credit to Franklin though, they are very active pressuring the ball and have great length. The good news is Hayesville has right at two weeks until they play their season opener. Tonight will give them a good look at what they need to work on. Chad McClure and staff will use it to get some adjustments made and have this team ready to compete.
Men’s Game:
The Hayesville Yellow Jacket basketball team has incredibly high expectations coming into the season. If tonight’s scrimmage is any indication though they are more than ready to meet or exceed those expectations. They played at a breakneck pace for most of the night that even a very athletic and deep Franklin team struggled to keep up with. While there was no official stats or even cumulative game score, but one would probably say Hayesville won the scrimmage. The score was reset after each quarter and the Yellow Jackets won each of the first three quarters. While they did lose the last quarter. It was without any of their star players in the game at all. Positive signs from the scrimmage were plentiful, as Kolbe Ashe and company looked even better than expected. It was great to see Jake Mctaggart back in a Hayesville basketball uniform and he looked even better than most remembered. Hayesville has plenty of guards to choose from to put on the wing. Honestly, it will be hard to divide up playing time for head coach Mike Cottrell and staff. Yet that is a good problem to have to work out. As well with Mctaggart drawing lots of inside attention, Kyle Lunsford may be poised for a breakout year.
Overall Hayesville looks to be on the right trajectory and ready for their season opener on Monday as they will host Blue Ridge. This will be a boys varsity game only and it will be live on fyntv.com as will every Hayesville home game this season. 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 Names Athletes of the Year
Sports, TeamFYNSports August 3, 2021
Hayesville High School has named its 2020-2021 athletes of the year. Hayesville had Co-athletes of the year with the boy’s award being given to seniors Blake McClure and Eli Roberts. The girl’s award was given to sophomore Lila Roberts. All three were key contributors in multiple sports and are all outstanding students.
Blake McClure was named to the coaches all-conference in both football and basketball. While also being named to the Team FYN sports all-area team in both football and basketball. He also participated in track during the spring season. McClure will be attending Appalachian State where he will continue his athletic career playing football.
Eli Roberts was a state qualifier in cross country while also being named coaches all-conference honorable mention in baseball and basketball. Roberts will be attending Young Harris in the fall.
Lila Roberts was a key player in an incredible five sports, cross country, volleyball, basketball, softball, and track. It is crazy to think about in a year where Covid condensed the athletics seasons Roberts was still able to play vital roles in almost every female sport offered at Hayesville. Only a sophomore this past year, Roberts will be looking to lead the Lady Yellow Jackets in multiple sports again this upcoming school year.
Hayesvilles Kolbe Ashe Receives 1st Scholarship offer
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports April 7, 2021
FYN Sports would like to congratulate Hayesville star point guard Kolbe Ashe on his scholarship offer from the Young Harris men’s basketball program. Kolbe was chosen as the FYN Sports NC player of the year this past season. He is a 3-year starter going into his senior year at Hayesville. During his junior season at Hayesville, his per-game averages this past season were 22.3 pts, 4.4 rebs, 2.1 steals, 49% FG, 43% 3 PT, 87.2% ft. He is also an incredibly clutch player during the 4th quarter this past season he averaged 57.1% FG, 47.6% 3pt, and 89.1% FT. It’s safe to say in the 4th quarter he is a bonafide closer and has ice running through his veins.
Fans expect this just to be the first offer, once college coaches start looking closer at Ashe they will realize there are very few point guards in the state or region that would a better choice to run their offense. As well Ashe is playing with a big-time travel ball program in the Atlanta All-Stars which will help him get even more exposure to coaches looking for players to fill out the 2022 recruiting class.
Interview with Kolbe Ashe:
Q: Is this your first scholarship offer?
A: Yes it is.
Q: What was it like talking with Young Harris head coach Jeremy Currier when he called and offered?
A: Super exciting and very surprised. I had never talked to him on the phone before the offer.
Q: So what did coach Currier say when he called?
A: He said he liked the way I play and he had been watching from distance this past year watching me play in high school and travel ball. As well, he liked that I had a high GPA.
Coach Cottrell Quotes About Kolbe Ashes Offer:
“Extremely excited for Kolbe not only because of the type of player he is but because of the quality person he is. He is one of the best players I have had, but is also a very hard worker and really puts in a lot of time and effort. He leads by example and is a great teammate.”
“I also really appreciate Coach Currier of Young Harris taking a look at local players and valuing the talent that comes from our local teams.”
“I also expect his to be the first of many offers for Kolbe”
Hayesville Yellow Jacket Playoff Round 1 Preview
Business February 22, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets have secured the #2 seed in the west. They will play host in a very intriguing 1st round matchup. Their opponent? Winston Salem Preparatory Academy. Quite a draw for a first round playoff game, but that’s the way it goes especially amidst the Covid season we are in.
Only 32 teams made the playoffs and the nine conference winners out of the west were given a random seeding 1-9. With that said Hayesville got a bit of good luck getting a #2 seed, granted being ranked first in the state one could say it’s well deserved. Chances are as long as Hayesville wins they will be at home for the entirety of the playoffs up until the state championship game.
Hayesvilles Opponent, Winston Salem Prep
The defending state championships, also 6 time state champions were granted a wild card seed being the second best team in their conference. They are forced to be reckoned with in 1A basketball, or at least they have been since the schools inception. Yet every season of that was under one coach, Andre Gould who has now left to a different school. It is well known that WSPA has an open enrollment policy.
This has allowed them to build all star rosters leading to their many state championship wins. Interestingly enough their open enrollment policy may have hurt them when their former coach left. WSPA leading scorer, a junior from their state championship team, should have been back. Yet he followed his coach to his new school along with several of WSPA other players. In fact only four players return from there state championship team. This team is no longer filled with a boat load of sure fire D1 basketball recruits.
Rather they are a very athletic scrappy bunch who has gotten better as the year went on. They still came in second place in traditionally one of the best boys basketball conferences in the state. As well in their last game of the season it was essentially a win and get in situation. They did just that winning ,when it was that or season over. They are playing their best basketball of the season and Hayesville will need to be on their game to win.
Opposing Coach Interview, with Winston Salem Prep Head Coach William Tibbs Jr.
Q: What do you know about your 1st round opponent Hayesville?
A: I know they are a #2 seed overall, undefeated in conference and overall. They probably should have been the #1 overall seed in the state.
Q: Describe your team a little, what do you do well, do you play fast, slow, like to press, shoot the three, pound it inside etc.
A: Were made up of Seniors and Juniors, We like to push the ball but can play anyway we need to play. We had some tough games at the beginning of the year that showed us who we are.
Q: How is your team’s overall health coming into this game?
A: We’re pretty healthy little knicked up and banged up at this time of the year. Nothing that’s going to keep anyone from playing though.
Q: What does your team need to do to win on Tuesday?
A: We need to play our game, respect the opponent but we are not afraid of them.
Interview with Hayesville head Coach Michael Cottrell
Q: What are your expectations/goals in the playoffs
A: We are a unique team. We love to compete and want to measure ourselves against the best teams in the state. Teams that are traditionally strong in the playoffs, obviously every team wants to win state. But first you gotta beat some real good teams to do that and this is one of those teams.
Q: What do you know about your opponent Winston Salem Prep?
A: seen them on film and scouting reports, very athletic strong team team, play in one of the best conferences and typically win that conference. Also have won several state championships in the past ten years or so.
Q:If there was a key or keys to your playoff success what would they be?
A: Rebound to be competitive at the highest levels we are not real big but we compete.
Q: To beat Winston Salem Prep tomorrow night what does your team need to do?
A: rebounding obviously, generate some offense against their athleticism. Not sure if we will out rebound them but if we rebound with them it will give us a good chance. If they are out rebounding us 3 to 1 we won’t beat a team as good as them. We expect this game to be a war, a battle, it is a tough first round matchup with a good team. We anticipated tough games with not as many teams making the playoffs this year.
What to watch for
Hayesville will have to play to the level they are capable of to win this game. Hayesville should be the better shooting team in this game. Yet as usual Hayesville will be the undersized team in this game just as they have been many times this year. A big key to this game will be rebounding for the Yellow Jackets. As well Hayesville is the more fundamentally sound team, playing better team offense and defense. While Prep will have some athletes the likes of which Hayesville has yet to see this year.It will be a big advantage for Hayesville though getting to play at home, while Prep will have a 250 mile five hour drive on a bus.
Game Prediction
Hayesville wins 70-58
Epic Comeback Equals Undefeated Season
Clay County Schools, Hayesville Basketball, Hayesville High, Sports, Team FYN Sports, TeamFYNSports February 19, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets played the Swain Maroon Devils in Bryson city Thursday night. The Yellow Jackets were chasing history looking to become only the second team in Hayesville history to play a regular season undefeated. It looked like Hayesville would fall short of this goal entering the fourth quarter down 55-42. Yet playing the best quarter they had played all season, led by star guard Kolbe Ashe, Hayesville stole a victory from the clutches of defeat. They outscored Swain by 22 points in the fourth quarter winning 71-62.
In the first quarter Hayesville and Swain traded blows early with Swain landing the last few punches in the quarter. Hayesville did not seem quite in sync and were having some turnover troubles that would plague them for the first three quarters of the game. They did get some good finishes from their forward duo. With both Brady Shook and Kyle Lunsford chipping in four first quarter points each. Yet Swain got scoring from four different players and edged Hayesville in the quarter 17-13.
Blake McClure makes a free throw.
The second quarter once again saw the teams seemingly play pretty evenly, that is until Hayesville found themselves in foul trouble. Starters Brady Shook and Kolbe Ashe finished the quarter on the bench as they had two fouls each. Swain took advantage of a rare occasion for Hayesville, that is having Kolbe Ashe on the bench. Swain played a full court press defense and forced multiple Hayesville turnovers. This allowed them to extend their lead going into halftime to 33-28.
The third quarter saw Swain come out as hot and put Hayesville in an unfamiliar position. That is being down double digits, something that has happened very few times, if any this season. The Yellow Jackets were up against it and appeared to be on their way to their first loss of the season. That is until Kolbe Ashe and company seemingly flipped the switch, starting to finally fight back. It looked like it might be too late though as Swain took a 55-42 lead into the fourth quarter.
After a quick opening bucket by the Devils, the Yellow Jackets found themselves down 15 points looking for answers. From that point forward though it was all Hayesville and they were chipping away at the lead possession by possession. Led by Ashe who had ten fourth quarter points, Hayesville all of sudden found themselves in a dogfight. Swain fighting for a chance at a playoff berth and Hayesville fighting for a chance at history.
Asher Brown makes a crucial free throw.
Hayesville hit five three pointers in the fourth quarter, each feeling more important than the previous one. The last of those five threes put them up by three with under two minutes left in the game. After regaining possession Swain had no choice but to foul with the game on the line. Swain waited to foul until the ball was in the hands of freshman Asher Brown. Brown calmly went to the free throw line and nailed two free throws, only to do the exact same thing on the next possession. After the four biggest free throws of Brown’s young career, the Yellow Jackets had a seven point lead with only seconds left.
Hayesville not only finished the game off winning 71-62 but made history completing an undefeated regular season. It was a very cool moment for myself as a media member. Having played myself on Hayesvilles last regular season undefeated team (2011-2012), now getting to cover the second team in school history to do it. Both teams being very similar, undersized but scrappy, great defensively and playing great unselfish team ball. With each team having a bona fide star guard leading the way. The question remains though, can this Hayesville team do what the first undefeated regular season team could not? That is to win a North Carolina 1A state championship.
Hayesville notable stats:
Kolbe Ashe: 30 points 8 rebounds 8 assists
Blake McClure:14 points 6 rebounds
Kyle Lunsford: 10 points 9 rebounds
Click link below to see post game interview with Kolbe Ashe and Blake McClure
Playoff brackets will come out on Sunday afternoon and Hayesville will find out their seeding for playoffs as well as their first round opponent. FYN will have all that coverage as the state releases the information. As well FYN will also be providing playoff game previews for each round of the playoffs. So make sure to tune in to all the latest coverage from FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports.
Lady Yellow Jacket Lose in Season Finale
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports February 19, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets played at the Swain Lady Devils in their last game of the season on Thursday evening. Hayesville and Swain, both likely already out of playoff contention, did not play like two teams whose seasons were coming to an end. Both teams played hard for four full quarters. The game came down to the wire with Hayesvlle almost pulling off the comeback win. Yet they came up short on the last possession losing 51-53.
Brianna Foster rises up to hit a tough shot.
In the first quarter Hayesville got out to a quick lead, thanks to three first quarter three pointers. Yet Swain battled back late in the quarter and hit some big shots of their own. Both teams were executing well on offense but the Lady Devils struck the last blow in the quarter. This allowed them to take a 16 to 13 lead into the second quarter.
The second quarter saw each team ratchet up the defense and buckets were not coming easily for either team. Hayesville offense was only salvaged in the quarter thanks to two big threes from Lizzy Brusini. While Swain was led by Savannah Smith who had seven of her teams nine third quarter points. Hayesville was able to edge Swain by one point in the quarter cutting the lead to 23-25 going into halftime.
Lizzy Brusini drives hard at the rim.
In the third quarter the Hayesville offense really faltered only managing seven third quarter points. This allowed Swain to increase their lead and take the momentum. It was Swains senior night and they were playing with great energy. With some strong inside play Swain outscored Hayesville by four points in the quarter. They carried a 36-30 lead and the momentum going into the fourth quarter.
It appeared the Lady Devils may cruise to victory going into the fourth quarter. Yet Hayesville had one last run in them looking to steal a victory away after trailing for the majority of the game. Behind a big quarter from Brianna Foster who had 10 fourth quarter points Hayesville brought the game all the way back even. Yet they couldn’t finish it off losing in the final moments of the game 53-51.
One has to wonder if this was a regular season with 20 plus games what this Hayesville girls team would have become. It seems this team is just starting to play their best basketball of the season, only to have their season end.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Brianna Foster: 20 points
Lizzy Brusini: 9 points
Lila Payne: 9 points
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.
Yellow Jackets Win Big in Final Home Game
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports February 17, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Rosman Tigers in their final home game of the regular season. The Yellow Jackets came into this game with a conference championship already clinched but they are now chasing after an undefeated season. Hayesville was obviously the superior team in this matchup winning 85-24.
Asher Brown makes a free throw.
The first quarter of this game was the only one that had any back and forth action. Rosman came out, actually taking a narrow lead but it would not last long. Hayesville played all 11 players in the quarter getting scoring from seven different ones. By quarters Hayesville had taken a 20-10 lead.
In the second quarter Hayesville took total control of the game, leaving the game beyond reach by halftime. Once again getting scoring from multiple players, six in total it was a complete team effort in the first half. The Yellow Jackets took a commanding 39-17 lead into the break.
The third quarter saw the Yellow Jackets play even better, scoring 25 points in the quarter while only allowing Rosman to score only two points. The Yellow Jackets got scoring from eight different players in the quarter. Oftentimes in games like this you may see selfish play with a few players doing the bulk of the scoring. Not this Yellow Jacket team they played some great team ball getting everyone involved throughout all four quarters.
Logan Caldwell finishes on the fastbreak.
Coming into the fourth quarter with a 64-19 lead the clock was running and the game was coming to a quick end. Even with a running clock Hayesville still scored 21 points in the quarter. The Yellow Jackets had five double figure scorers on the night and ultimately won the game 85-24.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Tyler Jones: 15 points
Asher Brown: 11 points
Kyle Lunsford: 11 points
Blake McClure: 10 points
Brady Shook: 10 points
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets next play on Thursday at Swain, this is their last regular season game. The Yellow Jackets come into this game undefeated and are looking at becoming only the second team in Hayesville history to have a undefeated regular season. 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 Jackets Fall in Final Home Game
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports February 17, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Rosman Lady Tigers in their last home game of the season. The Lady Yellow Jackets played very well and went toe to toe with Rosman for the entire game. Hayesville had multiple opportunities to take a late lead and steal a win. Yet it was difficult to overcome a large disparity in the fouls and overall officitiating of the game. The Lady Yellow Jackets ultimately fell 60-56.
Jocelin Buckner shoots a free throw.
In the first quarter Hayesville got off to a rough start, while Rosman came out firing. It did not help that there were several calls from the officials that were incorrect and helped Rosman. The Lady Tigers got their lead up to fourteen points, but Hayesville chipped away at it late in the quarter. Thanks to a few late buckets Hayesville only trailed 18-10 to end the quarter.
In the second quarter Hayesville came out hot, outplaying Rosman for much of the quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets got scoring from six different players in the quarter. They got six a piece from Breanna Foster and Lila Payne, creating a nice inside out game. It was obvious for much of the game that Hayesville had a big advantage in the post. A big part of their success in the second quarter was their rebounding effort and inside defense. Hayesville came all the way back in the quarter almost taking a lead into the half only trailing 30-29.
The third quarter was back and forth but Rosman hit some timely threes towards the end of the quarter to extend their lead. Hayesville struggled offensively in the quarter having some good looks just unable to finish. Rosman took a 45-39 lead into the fourth quarter.
Coming into the fourth quarter it was anyone’s game and Rosman looked like they may extend their lead beyond reach. The Lady Tigers had a 10 point lead with about three minutes left, with Hayesvilles window to possibly win closing quickly. Yet with a couple of big threes Hayesville all of a sudden found themselves down only four. Then they narrowed the lead to just two points but just couldn’t get over that last hump losing 60-56.
It needs to be pointed out that the officiating seemed to favor Rosman throughout the game. At one point during the fourth quarter the second half foul count was Hayesville 13 fouls to only 4 for Rosman. As well, Rosman shot 14 more free throws in the game than Hayesville. It was a rare instance where officials probably did alter the final outcome of the game.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Brianna Foster: 21 points
Lila Payne: 11 points
Jocelin Buckner 11 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets will next play Thursday at Swain in their final game this season. 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 Clinches Conference Championship
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports February 10, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets took their undefeated record into what many thought would be a tough away game on Tuesday evening. Away games are always tough in the SMC and their opponent Andrews looked ready to give the Yellow Jackets all they had. Andrews though could not have been prepared for what they ended up facing though. That is an absolutely incredible night from Hayesville star guard Kolbe Ashe. His 21 first half points led Hayesville to an overwhelming 78-39 victory over the Wildcats.
Tyler Jones drives past a defender.
The Wildcats played Hayesville tough in the first quarter going back and forth early. Hayesville had some early turnover troubles that led to some easy baskets for Andrews. This led coach Mike Cottrell to switching out four players earlier than usual. It worked to perfection as the second unit gave Hayesville the jolt they needed. Hayesville took the lead back midway through the quarter, then extended it further thanks to a couple of late baskets.
Hayesville carried a 14-8 lead into the second quarter, came out firing and looked to push the pace. Hayesville was playing for what they knew would at least be a share of the conference championship with a win. Kolbe Ashe knowing this played one of his best games of the year and wanted to not give Andrews any reason to believe they could beat Hayesville on this night. Ashe put on a show in the first half and almost single handedly outscored Andrews. Behind Ashe’s 21 first half points Hayesville carried a 33-22 lead into the half.
Asher Brown finishes strong on the fastbreak.
In the second half Andrews knew they would need to come out hot to have a chance to hang with Hayesville. The Yellow Jackets though were the team that came out firing, leaving Andrews with no chance at a comeback. Hayesville got on an early run and had basically put the game out of reach by the middle of the third quarter. Then with Hayesville bringing on their entire second unit they still continued to stretch their lead. By quarter’s end Hayesville led 52-27 and could start to taste the conference championship.
Andrews, desperate to get back in the game in the fourth quarter, started a half court trapping defense, playing frantically trying to force turnovers. Yet freshman Asher Brown, who was playing at the point guard position handled it masterfully for Hayesville. Brown playing with the savviness of a senior battle tested point guard, led the Yellow Jacket offense in the fourth quarter helping clinch a share of the conference championship. With a big performance out of Jose Espinal who had 8 fourth quarter points and a highlight reel block on defense, Hayesville won 78-39.
Hayesville Leading Scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 31 points
Brady Shook: 11 points
Asher Brown: 9 points
Jose Espinal: 8 points
While Hayesville knew they had clinched at least a share of the conference championship. It wasn’t until later in the night when they found out both teams in second place had lost, making Hayesville the outright conference champions with three games left to go in the season. Hayesville will next play at Cherokee Friday night looking to stay undefeated on the season.
Click link to see interviews with Hayesville players Brady Shook, Kolbe Ashe, Blake McClure and head coach Michael Cottrell reflecting on their conference championship and what’s left in their season.
https://www.facebook.com/269399726881515/posts/1028791957608951/
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 Lose to Murphy
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports February 6, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow hosted the Murphy Lady Bulldogs on Friday evening in a conference matchup. The Lady Yellow Jackets played the Lady Bulldogs tough and after getting down early played with them for much of the game. Ultimately though the Lady Bulldogs were too much for Hayesville, pulling away in the fourth quarter winning 53-33.
In the first quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets got off to a rough start as Murphy couldn’t miss from three early. Lady Bulldogs guard Kaiya Pockens got off to a hot start scoring 11 first quarter points including three three pointers. After the rough start Hayesville battled back but still trailed at the end of the first quarter 20-8.
In the second quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets were playing well in many facets of the game. They did much better than in the first game against Murphy at breaking the press. Yet even when breaking the press they struggled to score in the half court. A problem that has plagued Hayesville all year, simply put they struggle to the ball in the hoop. They finished the quarter trailing 33-16.
The Lady Jackets came out in the third quarter battling hard and playing very evenly with Murphy. They held the Lady Bulldogs to only 11 third quarter points giving themselves a chance to get back in the game. Yet the Lady Jackets could only muster 10 points themselves in the quarter. On nights when this Hayesville team finds ways to score they can play with anyone. Yet tonight was not one of those nights and they ended the third quarter trailing 44-26.
Once again Hayesville held tight defensively against Murphy in the fourth quarter. In each successive quarter tonight Hayesville held Murphy to less points. Yet with the game already out of hand it was too much for a Lady Yellow Jacket comeback tonight. The Lady Yellow Jackets still trying to fix their offensive woes fell to Murphy 53-33.
Senior Lizzy Brusini
Senior Jocelin Buckner
Senior Madison Ellison
Senior Brianna Foster
Senior Kynnly McClure
The Lady Yellow Jackets next play on Saturday, February 6th hosting the Robbinsville Lady Black Knights. 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.
High Scoring 2nd Quarters Propels Yellow Jackets to Victory
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 30, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets traveled to the western most geographically located school in the state, Hiwassee Dam. This Friday matchup against the host Eagles while being non conference still meant a lot for the Yellow Jackets. Hayesville was looking to continue on their undefeated streak and build momentum going into the second half of their schedule. Well momentum was built alright with an impressive 68-58 victory.
Logan Caldwell lines up a three point shot.
The Yellow Jackets trotted out five new starters on the night, giving some important role players the opportunity. With two early threes, one by Rudy Seaker and another by Jose Espinal, Hayesville had an early lead. It did not last though, the Eagles had some strong post play in the first quarter and fought back to take a lead. Thanks to a basket-saving block by senior Blake McClure that lead was kept to just four points. Hayesville finished the quarter trailing only 16 to 12.
The second quarter was a different story though, Hayesville had a prolific quarter scoring the ball. They put up an incredible 34 points in the quarter, leaving Hiwassee Dam baffled looking for answers at the halftime break. They got points from seemingly everywhere the fastbreak, free throw line, three pointers and inside. To top it off their defense held the Eagles to only 7 second quarter points resulting in a 46-19 halftime lead.
Going into the third quarter most thought Hayesville would cruise to an easy victory. This could not be further from the truth though as Hiwassee Dam started the quarter on a 13-0 run to bring the game to 46-32. Hayesville responded with a 8-0 run of their own to quickly put some distance between themselves and the Eagles. The quarter ended with Hayesville leading 54-36 and the Eagles on the ropes.
Asher Brown makes a free throw.
Hiwassee Dam would just not go away though starting the quarter with a quick four points to once again cut the lead within striking distance. This was truly a game of runs though with Hayesville answering right back. The Eagles still fought hard down the stretch, slowly shrinking the Hayesville lead. With the stunning third quarter that Hayesville had, Hiwassee Dam could never catch up with Hayesville winning 68-58.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 13 points
Paul White: 13 points
Kyle Lunsford: 12 points
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets next play on Tuesday, February 2nd hosting the Robbinsville Black Knights. 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 Get Big Win Now in Poll Position in Conference
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 27, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Swain Maroon Devils in a big conference matchup on Tuesday night. This game marked the halfway point in conference play. With Swain in second and Hayesville in first with a one game lead, this game was to decide who might be the top team in the conference. It was a back and forth game but thanks to a strong 4th quarter Hayesville grinded out a big win. This now gives Hayesville a two game lead in the conference.
Blake McClure makes a tough catch and finishes for two points.
In the first quarter there was plenty of Yellow Jacket offense, getting off to a great start setting an early tone. Hayesville got scoring from six different players, paced by sophomore Kyle Lunsford who had six early points. Swain got a few early buckets and looked like they may stay on pace with Hayesville in the quarter. Towards the end of the quarter, Hayesville tightened up their defense and were able to build a lead. The Yellow Jackets finished the quarter leading 20-12.
In the second quarter Hayesvilles offense was still humming and once again, spread the scoring around. The Yellow Jackets got scoring from five different players in the quarter and almost matched their first quarter scoring output. Yet in this quarter Swain started to heat up, scoring 17 points of their own to make sure Hayesville would not run away with it. The game went to the halftime break with Hayesville leading 39-29.
In the third quarter Swain fought hard and were able to outpace the Jackets for the first time all game. This was thanks to a huge output by their star center Isaiah Collins who had 12 of his 25 points on the night in the third quarter. In the meantime Hayesvilles offense struggled in the quarter and Swain was able to shrink the lead to a one possession game. At the end of the quarter Hayesville was holding onto a 49-47 lead, with it looking like anyone’s game.
Kolbe Ashes drills a mid range jumper.
Typically this season the fourth quarter has belonged to star guard Kolbe Ashe but not on this night. Swain refused to let Ashe beat them single handedly as he has many other opponents this year. With the defense tight on Ashe he made some great passes and was awesome leading the break. Many of those passes went to senior guard Paul White who had a breakout night. He led the Jackets in fourth quarter scoring with 9 points.
It was great to see some other Yellow Jackets step up on this night in the battle for first place in the conference. As opponents put more and more focus on Kolbe Ashe, it is leaving other Yellow Jackets with scoring opportunities and they are coming up clutch, just as White did tonight. Hayesville finished the game off winning 68-58 securing their poll position in the Smoky Mountain Conference.
Watch Senior Guard Paul White discuss his team’s big win and his strong fourth quarter performance.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 20 points
Paul White: 13 points
Blake McClure: 10 points
Kyle Lunsford: 8 points
Asher Brown: 7 points
Hayesville will next play at Hiwassee Dam on Friday, January 29th. 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.