Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets Win Tough Conference Game
Business January 27, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Swain Lady Devils on Tuesday night. The game was an important one for the Lady Yellow Jackets. Coming off a three game losing streak this was an opportunity for Hayesville to get back on track. While it was by no means an easy game they did get back on the right side of the win column. They defeated the Lady Devils 39-32 to pick up their second conference win.
Lila Payne hits a big 3 pointer.
In the first quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets got off to a good start, playing as hard as we have seen all season. Hayesville got scoring from five girls in the quarter and got out to an early lead. This is while they played great defense which was a theme throughout the game for the Lady Jackets. They finished the quarter with a 15 to 7 lead.
In the second quarter the Hayesville offense came to a screeching halt. While only scoring six points in the quarter, it seemed that may leave the door open for Swain to fight back. This was to no avail though as the Lady Jackets defense continued to impress holding Swain to a measly five points in the quarter. This actually allowed Hayesville to extend their lead even further, going into halftime with a 21-12 lead.
Lila Roberts dishes the ball to a teammate.
The Lady Yellow Jacket offense was still asleep at the wheel in the third quarter unfortunately. Only scoring three points in the quarter allowed Swain to get right back in it. While Hayesvilles defense was still solid, their low scoring output really hurt them. At the quarters end Swain had come all the way back to take the lead. It appeared that Hayesville was about to let another winnable game slip away. Swain led going into the fourth quarter 26-24.
Coming into the fourth quarter, Hayesville knew they were going to have to find more ways to score to have a chance. They got back to much of what they did in the first quarter. They spread the ball around and got multiple players involved. Four different players scored in the quarter totaling 15 fourth quarter points. This matched their first quarter output and this is all while holding Swain to only six fourth quarter points. This allowed Hayesville to fight off the Lady Devils and win 39-32.
Watch head coach Chad McClure discuss his teams win, toughness and his thoughts on the conference this year.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Lila Payne: 12 points
Kynnly McClure: 8 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets 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.
Yellow Jackets Win on Senior Night
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports February 6, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted their rival Murphy Bulldogs on senior night. This game was a tough physical battle from start to finish. Hayesville went blow for blow with Murphy all game and never lost their head. Credit to not only their physical toughness but their mental toughness. Especially with the trash talk being constant from the Bulldogs players and bench all night. Thanks to a great fourth quarter the Yellow Jackets pulled away winning 60-46.
In the first quarter Hayesville got out to an early lead thanks to a 7-0 run. The Yellow Jackets went cold late in the quarter unable to extend their lead further. Yet due to some great defense and rebounding Hayesville was able to hold Murphy to just four points in the quarter. This gave the Yellow Jackets a 9-4 lead heading into the second quarter.
At the start of the second quarter Murphy started to fight back and appeared ready to give Hayesville a tough game. It was back and forth for much of the quarter with Bulldogs outsourcing the Yellow Jackets in the quarter. Murphy had the chance to narrow the lead further as Abram Abling stole the ball and got a good look at the basket to end the quarter but just missed. Hayesville went into halftime leading 20-17 but the Bulldogs had gained some important momentum.
In the third quarter the Bulldogs chipped away at the lead even further getting it down to just one point. Yet Hayesville never shied away from the challenge coming back strong late in the quarter with some big plays by Kolbe Ashe. He made two threes in the quarter, got fouled on another three pointer making all three and had an old-fashioned and one three point play in the quarter. Simply put Murphy had no answer for him. This resulted with Hayesville ending the quarter with a 39-32 point lead looking to close it out.
Hayesville responded with a big fourth quarter scoring wise leaving Murphy no chance at a comeback. Hayesville scored 21 in the fourth quarter to put the game out of reach and vaulted them to a double digit win 60-46. This game not only put Hayesville one step closer to a conference championship but also kept them undefeated on the season. Hayesville now stands just three wins away from at least a share of the conference championship.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 26 points
Kyle Lunsford: 10 points
Blake McClure: 10 points
Brady Shook: 9 points
To see post game interview with star guard Kolbe Ashe click below:
Senior Jose Espinal
Senior Tyler Jones
Senior Blake McClure
Senior Eli Roberts
Senior Rudy Seaker
Senior Brady Shook
Senior Paul White
Lady Yellow Jackets Lose in a Nail Biter
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 30, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to Hiwassee Dam on Friday night to take on the Lady Eagles. This was a non conference matchup but a good opportunity for Hayesville to continue their momentum from a win earlier in the week. After a good start to the game it looked like the Lady Jackets may be able to do just that. Yet offensive woes hit hard in the second half and they lost in a nail biter 40-38.
Lila Payne hits a big 3 pointer.
The first quarter went back and forth with both teams making good on a few early opportunities. Hayesville came out in their 2-2-1 press early in the game, forcing turnovers early and often. Yet even with the stolen possessions, the Lady Jackets struggled to finish around the basket after their early success. Hayesville got their offense going though late in the quarter though making several long jumpers, building a first quarter lead of 15-5.
It was evident that the Lady Eagles offense was going to flow through their post scoring. Hayesvilles defense was stifling the guards but struggling to stop it when Hiwassee Dam got the ball in the post. As well the free throw opportunities were plentiful behind some happy whistles. This was partially responsible for the Lady Eagles cutting into the lead. Hayesville, hot from three, were able to maintain a lead going into halftime 23-17.
The third quarter has been a struggle offensively for the Lady Jackets this season and this night was no different. While getting some open looks, it felt like there was a lid on the basket. Yet because of their always stellar defense the Lady Jackets were able to keep their lead going into the fourth quarter. Also due to two late three pointers extending the lead to 32-26 even after some frustrating misses.
Lizzy Brusini sets up the Hayesville offense.
Going into the fourth quarter it felt like the game could be slipping away from the Lady Jackets. Hiwassee Dam got a few early points to make it a one possession game. Hayesville did not just go away though, they answered with some key baskets of their own. It was a very entertaining fourth quarter from both teams, going back and forth with each possession feeling more important than the last.
Due to a few untimely turnovers though the Lady Eagles were able to fight all the way back and take a late fourth quarter lead, their first of the game. With the deficit at four Hayesville got a big three from junior Lila Payne to cut it to one. Hayesville had two straight possessions with a chance to take the lead but couldn’t get good shots to fall. Hiwassee Dam had a chance to push their lead beyond reach but missed several free throw opportunities. The Lady Jackets though could not get a single shot to fall in the closing moments losing 40-38.
Hayesville leading scorers:
Lila Payne 18 points
Brianna Foster 8 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets next play on Tuesday, February 2nd 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.
Hayesville Wins to Stay Undefeated on the Season
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 16, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Andrews Wildcats on Friday evening in an important conference matchup.
In the first quarter the game looked as if it was going to be a good matchup as the teams went back and forth. It was easy to tell what type of team Andrews is looking to be this year as they were letting threes fly early and often. They knocked down a few of those looks and built an early lead. Hayesville was still very much in striking distance though looking to pull close towards the end of the quarter. Even with a strong effort to end the quarter Hayesville trailed Andrews 17-12 to end the first quarter.
The Yellow Jackets charged back quickly to open the 2nd quarter. As Senior Blake McClure had 5 straight points to open the second quarter and bring the game back even. The Yellow Jackets carried McClure’s early momentum into team success as they played probably their best quarter of basketball this season. They held Andrews to just 10 points in the quarter while scoring 19 themselves. With a differential of plus nine for the Yellow Jackets in the quarter they held a 31-27 lead at the half.
The second half started slow with both teams ratcheting up the defense and the buckets hard to find. About halfway through the second quarter though the Yellow Jackets started to find their groove again and put some points on the board. A large part of this was due to their press defense that caused turnovers and helped them get some easier looks. With the Hayesville offense humming to end the quarter, they were able to extend their lead 45-36 going into the fourth quarter.
The fourth quarter had plenty of scoring early, but Hayesville was able to incrementally build on their lead, to a point where it was out of reach. As a common theme coming down the stretch of many games this year for the Yellow Jackets Kolbe Ashe took over. Making several big baskets down the stretch left Andrews with no chance for a last minute comeback. Hayesville won 68-54, staying undefeated on the season.
The Yellow Jackets will next play Tuesday, January 19th. They will play host the Cherokee Braves, in a conference matchup. 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 Win Big
Business, Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 16, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets played host to the Andrews Lady Wildcats on Friday night. This was an important conference matchup, as the Lady Jackets were trying to get back to .500 in conference. Hayesville was the superior team in this game and dominated through all four quarters. The Lady Yellow Jackets secured the win on the night 61-13.
Hayesville started the game out on an 18-0 run to give themselves an early cushion. The early lead allowed the Lady Jackets to play comfortably and share the ball getting everyone involved. It was a good night for head coach Chad McClure to try some things both defensively and offensively. As we saw Hayesville run full and half court traps on defense. At the half the Lady Yellow Jackets led 43-9.
The second half was much of the same with Hayesville dictating the game on their terms. Hayesville extended their lead to over 40 points with 5:30 left in their third quarter. This resulted in a running clock as by the rulebook. At this point the game was all Hayesville and the final result came quickly.
The Lady Jackets did have some strong individual performances regardless of the score. Sometimes games like these can be great for a players confidence and result in continued high level play in future contests. Hayesville finished the game as strong as they started, winning 61-13. While they may have been the better team, they also played hard and shared the ball on well this night.
The Lady Jackets will look to continue on their momentum built in their first conference win next week. They will have another conference home game on Tuesday, January 19th as the Cherokee Lady Braves come to town. 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 Take Down Rival Bulldogs
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 12, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets traveled to Murphy on Tuesday night to take on their rivals the Murphy Bulldogs. While in the past few years Hayesville has dominated this match up, you always have to come ready to play when facing a rival. The game was a close one throughout with Hayesville sustaining a narrow lead for the majority of the game. With some solid free throw shooting and good ball control Hayesville was able to secure a 64-56 win on the night.
Logan Caldwell lines up a three point shot.
In the first quarter Hayesville was executing well on offense and rebounding really well. Hayesville got scoring from five different players in the quarter. Led by Paul While who had 7 first quarter points. Hayesville after having been roughed up by Robbinsville in their last game came ready to be more physical in this contest. They did not shy away from the contact and there was plenty of contact from the first quarter all the way through the fourth quarter.
Hayesville carried an 18-11 lead going into the second quarter and appeared ready to extend their lead even further. That is until Murphy’s Dillon Brown got hot off the bench, scoring 13 2nd quarter points to keep the Bulldogs in it. Hayesville’s defense was focused on Murphy star Abram Abling leaving Brown several open looks from three. Credit to the Jackets though because after the half, they made adjustments and held Brown to only two second half points.
At the half Hayesville had a 33-28 lead and it looked to be anybody’s game. In the second half though Hayesville was getting steady contributions from multiple players. Each time Murphy made an adjustment it seemed another Hayesville player would step up. One of those players Brady Shook, had one of the better nights of his career. Shook scored 12 points and had a bunch of rebounds but possibly most importantly played great defense on Murphy’s star Abling all night. While Abling did have 19 points but he had a low percentage from the field and took lots of shots to get that 19. Hayesville ended the third quarter with a 48-41 lead.
Brady Shooks fights off a defender for a tough 2 points.
Going into the fourth quarter Murphy’s bench received a technical, gifting Hayesville two free throws and possession to start the quarter. This hurt the Bulldogs as it allowed Hayesville to extend their lead even more. Making the Bulldogs comeback attempt that much tougher. The game was incredibly physical and while no flagrants were called on the night several times referees discussed the possibility. Fans on both sides probably wanted a few flagrants called, yet it’s early in the year and just as the players are getting into their groove, so are the referees.
Hayesville possessed the ball well and hit their free throws down the stretch. This allowed them to handle any comeback attempt and put the game away winning 64-56 over their rival.
Postgame quotes from Hayesville head coach Michael Cottrell:
“Thought it was a very good road win”
When asked about Brady Shooks performance
“That’s what we expect to see and that’s what we have been seeing in practice. Was glad to see him play well he had a really tough assignment”
“We need to clean up some of the stuff we are struggling with early in the season, we don’t have long but we clean them up and we will have a nice team.”
Leading scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 19 points
Brady Shooks: 12 points
Paul White: 11 points
Kyle Lunsford 10 points
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets will next play on Friday hosting the Andrews Wildcats. 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 Girls Fall to Rival Bulldogs
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 12, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets played at Murphy on Monday night. They took on the defending co-state champion Lady Bulldogs. Murphy came into the game as heavy favorites after only losing one player off the state championship team. To make things even tougher it appeared Hayesville only dressed 9 out of the 15 players listed on their roster. Murphy got out to a big first quarter lead and never looked back winning 53-28.
Lila Paynes fights through traffic.
It appeared in the opening moments of the game that Hayesville may be ready to give the Lady Bulldogs some trouble. Lila Payne opened up the game with back to back threes giving Hayesville their only lead of the night. Murphy quickly fought back using a stifling press defense that gave Hayesville fits. The times Hayesville broke the press their offense actually did well. Yet those opportunities were not coming often. Murphy hounded Hayesvilles guards for the entirety of the first half to go along with some great shooting.
It is easy to see why this Murphy team is a favorite to repeat for a state championship this year. They are loaded with talent and play as aggressively as any girls team you will see. Behind six first half threes Murphy took a 38-13 lead into halftime.
Lila Roberts lines up a three point shot.
After the half Hayesville did a much better job of handling the pressure and looked to give Murphy a hard time. It appears when a team gets the Lady Bulldogs into a half court game that may be one of their only weaknesses. Head coach Chad McClure’s pregame keys were handling pressure, don’t give open looks and rebound. Hayesville rebounded pretty well all night even when at a size disadvantage. They handled pressure better in the second half along with playing better defense. Hayesville actually tied the Lady Bulldogs when it came to second half scoring 15-15.
One could wonder if Hayesville had their full complement of players if they could have given Murphy a better game. It will make for an intriguing match up the second time they play at Hayesville if both teams can be at full health. Regardless the Lady Bulldogs defeated the Lady Yellow Jackets 53-28.
Leading Scorers:
Lila Payne 11 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets will next play on Friday hosting the Andrews Lady Wildcats. 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 Yellow Jackets Win Tough Road Game
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 9, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets traveled to Graham Co. to take on the Robbinsville Black Knights on Friday night. While many in the conference ended up being snowed out, these two teams put on a show. It was a hotly contested game that was back and forth for much of the first half. Hayesville took a lead into halftime but Robbinsville chipped away at it in the second half. The game ended up going down to the final minute. Behind star point guard Kolbe Ashe’s 32 points the Yellow Jackets were able to pull out a tough road win 60-56.
Asher Brown makes a free throw.
In the first quarter Hayesvilles offense got off to a slow start. While getting some good looks they just couldn’t get anything to fall. Head Coach Michael Cottrell did a full five player swap hoping to get their energy going. It worked out well and while the Jackets entered the 2nd quarter down 11-9. The second unit brought the team’s energy level up and catapulted the team into a great second quarter.
In the second quarter Hayesville came out in a three quarters court press and gave Robbinsville fits. In years past Hayesville has run their 1-2-2 press full court but in this game they dropped it back just a little. It worked to perfection and Robbinsvilles turnovers were turning into Yellow Jacket touchdowns so to speak. This allowed the Yellow Jackets to get Kolbe Ashe going who led the Yellow Jackets with 11 second quarter points. The team scored 22 in the second quarter while holding Robbinsville to only 10. This allowed the Yellow Jackets to carry a 10 point lead into the half.
In the third quarter it looked to be much of the same for Hayesville who looked like they may run away with it. Then Robbinsville started to get hot and seemingly couldn’t miss a shot. As well the few shots they did miss they seemed to get almost every offensive rebound. It was a very physical game, something to be expected when playing the defending football state champions. While the Hayesville lead got all the way up to 13 by quarters end the Black Knights had drawn within five points.
Logan Caldwell makes a fast break layup.
Going into the fourth quarter Hayesville knew they were in for a battle. Many casual Hayesville fans may have wondered after losing some players to transfer who would be the go to guy this year. Kolbe Ashe answered that question in a big way carrying the Yellow Jackets in the game. Especially the fourth quarter where he had 12 of the teams 17 fourth quarter points. In the last four minutes of the game Hayesville went four low leaving Ashe up top by himself to go iso. It worked great for the Yellow Jackets as Robbinsville had no answer for Ashe.
In the closing seconds of the game when Robbinsville was fouling Hayesville to try and get back in it. Hayesville responded by hitting some clutch free throws. Going 5-6 in their last six attempts was huge with Ashe hitting two, and senior Blake McClure hitting two as well. This allowed Hayesville to survive and win against a tough opponent on the road 60-56.
Post Game Quotes:
Head Coach Michael Cottrell
“Great win on the road against a really athletic hard fighting Robbinsville team.”
“Very typical of what happens when you come up here in the Smoky Mountain Conference.” “They play you, a very competitive league, away games are always tough, especially tough for us.”
“I was very proud of our team for figuring it out late, winning a game on the road which will help us later.”
“You have to win on the road to be in the hunt, someone will lose one up here, a good team will lose up here, you have to come to play when you come to Robbinsville.”
Leading Scorers:
Kolbe Ashe: 32 Points
Kyle Lunsford: 11 Points
Hayesville (2-0, 1-0), will next play on Monday, January 11th at Murphy (0-1, 0-1). 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 Yellow Jackets Win Big in Season Opener
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 6, 2021
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Nantahala Hawks on Tuesday night. This was their home opening game, as well as their first game of the season. The Yellow Jackets had great energy and it was obvious they were excited to be back on the court after an extended offseason. Hayesville was the superior team in this game and played like it all night long.
Tyler Jones finishes the fastbreak.
The Yellow Jackets started off with a bang to start the season. Senior Brady Shook stole a pass and dunked the ball with a two hand tomahawk. Normally this would have brought thunderous cheers from Hayesvilles student section. Yet with Covid restrictions and only twenty five fans in the gym it was a much different environment. Yet that did not stop the Yellow Jackets high paced action all night.
The first half belonged completely to the Yellow Jackets, who rotated a full five players regularly. Both the first and second units ran the floor hard and had numerous fast break finishes. Between good defense and the fast break the Hawks got down early and never had a chance to get back in it. The first half closed with Hayesville leading 50-20.
Eli Roberts rises above his opponent for a strong finish.
In the second half Hayesville went on an early run stretching their lead out to 40 which resulted in a running clock. Give the Hawks credit they did have several deep threes on the night. They only had one less three than Hayesville on the night but could not get anything to fall inside. Hayesville had the size advantage and used it to keep their opponents from attacking the basket. The game finished with Hayesville winning 88-36, getting their season off to the right start.
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets (1-0) travel to Graham county on Friday evening to take on the Robbinsville Black Knights. This will be their first conference game of the year for Hayesville. As the defending champions it should be a good test to see if Hayesville has what it takes to defend their crown.
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
The Lady Yellow Jackets Run Away With It In Their Home Opener
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 6, 2021
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Nantahala Lady Hawks in the first game of their long awaited basketball season. Hayesville is bringing back some firepower down low this year with three seniors leading their post rotation. At the same time though they are incorporating some new guards into the playing rotation. In this game Hayesville totally had their opponent overmatched. While the game itself was not close, it gave head coach Chad McClure a look at some of his new pieces in a low pressure environment.
Jocelyn Buckner rises high to score over her opponent.
In the first half the Lady Jackets were able run through many of their offensive sets. This gave the opportunity for many different players to get great looks at the hoop. Hayesville was led by senior Brianna Foster with nine first half points. Foster showed off some new moves including leading the break multiple times along with a couple of fancy euro step finishes. At the halftime break, the Lady Yellow Jackets led 38-2.
The second half saw Hayesville get many of their reserves valuable time, with several seeing their first ever varsity action. Hayesville had fewer scorer opportunities as the majority of the second half was played with a running clock. The Lady Yellow Jackets did not do anything in an attempt to run up the score. Yet even Hayesvilles second unit grossly outplayed the Lady Hawks.
Breanna Cothren looks to pass to an open teammate.
The game ended in a more lopsided score than anyone would have even guessed. With Hayesville running away with it 64-4. The Lady Yellow Jackets played good team ball, sharing it well and executing their offense with great efficiency. This game was a nice opportunity for Hayesville to get back on the court after an extended offseason.
In their next contest the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets (1-0) will travel to Graham County to take on the Robbinsville Lady Knights (1-0). This will be their first conference matchup of the year. While early in the year this game presents an important start in conference play, in which will arguably be the toughest conference in the state.
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 face of With the Panthers in preseason scrimmage
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports December 30, 2020
.The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Franklin Panthers in their one and only preseason scrimmage of the year. Being that it was a scrimmage the format was a little different than what fans may be used to seeing. They played four full quarters and one extra four minute period in the scrimmage. While a box score was kept there were no foul limits for players. As well they used a modified free throw method for the bonus. All stats shared in this article are considered unofficial and do not count towards season long totals.
Logan Caldwell makes a three.
The Yellow Jackets, only lost one senior but did lose several players to transfers. This is to be expected when the NCHSAA postponed seasons for all sports. Some players looked elsewhere when the uncertainty surrounding North Carolina High school sports arose. One has to wonder what this season would be like for all North Carolina teams if they would have played without all these schedule changes. Especially when surrounding states have played full seasons with no major issues. The safety of players, coaches and fans always has to be the top priority. Yet with the surrounding states having had successful fall seasons one has to truly consider the NCHSAA’s reasoning.
Onto the scrimmage, the Yellow Jackets were facing a very talented Franklin team returning most of their key pieces from last year’s team. Hayesville struggled to get shots to fall in the first quarter, while even with good defense Franklin was hitting just about everything. The Panthers got out to a double digit lead to end the first quarter.
In the second quarter Hayesville was beginning to find their shooting touch and played Franklin very close. It was evident that Hayesville was trying to incorporate some new pieces. While the early returns may have been slim, the talent was evident. Players like young freshman Asher Brown was all over the court and his athleticism was easy to see. When head coach Michael Cottrell is able to get some of this young talent to mesh the sky will be the limit for this Yellow Jacket team.
In the third quarter junior point guard Kolbe Ashe decided to take control of the game for a stretch and just show how lethal he could be. His nine third quarter points paced the Jackets to their highest scoring quarter. Their first quarter in which they outscored Franklin.
In the fourth quarter both coaches let their reserves see significant minutes. It saw Franklin outscore the Yellow Jackets in the quarter. It was good to see several of the Yellow Jackets seeing their first significant minutes in their varsity career not back down from their opportunity. Players like Rudy Seaker blocking several shots and chipping in five points could lead to important opportunities later in the season.
In the extra period the teams played, it was great to see the Yellow Jackets dominate. It was evident their conditioning is on point even while having to wear masks this early in the season. It was also great to see young sophomore Kyle Lunsford step up in a big way for the Jackets. Lunsford flashed at times last year as a freshman. With expanded minutes this season though it would be great for the team to continue seeing what they saw from him against Franklin. He led all Yellow Jackets scorers with what would have been a career high 22 points if this was an official game.
The Yellow Jackets may have lost this scrimmage unofficially. Yet they were playing possibly one of the best teams they will face all year. It was a great measuring stick for Coach Cottrell. This will allow him to have his team ready for the season opener next week. They will host the Nantahala Hawks on Tuesday, January 5th.
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 Host Lady Panthers in Preseason Scrimmage
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports December 30, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Franklin Lady Panthers in their one and only preseason scrimmage of the year. Being that it was a scrimmage the format was a little different than what fans may be used to seeing. They played four full quarters but the score was not kept on the scoreboard. While a box score was kept there were no foul limits for players. As well they used a modified free throw method for the bonus. All stats shared in this article are considered unofficial and do not count towards season long totals.
Brianna Foster makes a free throw.
The Lady Yellow Jackets having lost several seniors and a few players to transfer welcomed some new faces to the court. It was an odd feeling being in an empty gym as no fans are allowed at NC scrimmages. The only ones in attendance were players, coaches, essential personnel and a few media members. As well it was a strange feeling seeing all the players in masks while playing. One has to wonder about the safety of players being able to breathe safely in a high cardio sport like basketball.
Now onto the scrimmage itself, the first quarter was a back and forth affair. The Lady Jackets held a slim two point lead going into the second quarter. In the second quarter, it was a defensive battle with both teams struggling to see many shots fall. At the half the Lady Jackets had a six point lead.they went into half looking to solve their offensive woes with some adjustments.
In the third quarter both teams executed better on offense and were able to each have their highest scoring quarters yet. Lady Jacket new comer Madison Ellison chipped in 5 third quarter points with some crafty moves. As well it was great to see Hayesville senior Kynnly McClure back out on the court. McClure missed the end of last season due to injury and she made her presence felt. She did not score a lot in this game but her energy, defense and rebounding presence was felt.
Kynnly McClure hits a three.
Going into the fourth quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets looked to hold onto their ten point lead and give themselves some confidence going into their season opener next week. While Franklin had their highest scoring quarter yet but the Lady Jackets lead was too much to overcome. The Lady Jackets unofficially won the scrimmage by seven points. They will look to build upon their performance in their home opener next week.
The Lady Yellow Jackets open their season hosting the Nantahala Lady Hawks next Tuesday, January 5th.
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 Yellow Jackets season ends in third-round loss.
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports March 2, 2020
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets traveled all the way to Siler City to take on the Chatham Charter Knights on Saturday, Feb. 29. It was a long five-plus hour drive on the bus and it appeared to affect the Jackets. They never truly got going Saturday and did play to the level that they are capable of. It resulted in a loss to Chatham by a score of 58-40, the game being much closer than the final score.
Neither team got off to a quick start with both teams only scoring in the single digits in the first quarter. You could tell the Yellow Jackets’ long ride hurt them early in the game because the energy level wasn’t high. The first quarter ended with Chatham having a narrow 9-5 lead.
In the second quarter, Chatham found some baskets with strong finishes at the rim. Hayesvilles shots were still not falling, allowing Chatham to extend their lead at halftime. At the half, Chatham Charter led the Yellow Jackets 27-19.
Hayesville knew they needed to make a third quarter run to have a chance. They did just that, outscoring Chatham in the third quarter. Yet they could never get it quite close enough to take a lead. Chatham played a packed in 2-3 zone all night, not giving anything easy inside. Hayesville had one of their worst shooting nights of the year. It was a perfect storm in favor of Chatham.
If Hayesville would have had just a below average shooting night from three that may have been enough to win. Yet Chatham’s game plan was solid and they did not make many mistakes on the night. This allowed them to finish the game winning 58-40.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Jake McTaggart 15 points
Hayden McClure 13 points
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage TeamFYNSports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets season ends in second round
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports February 28, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to take on the higher seeded Alleghany Lady Trojans. It was a close tight battle with the Lady Yellow Jackets trailing throughout but never by a wide margin. The game ended with Hayesvilles season ending in a tough 58-42 loss.
Things got off to a slow start for both teams, neither quite finding their offensive rhythm. The Lady Yellow Jackets had some good looks but the shots just weren’t falling. They found themselves trailing 9-8 at the end of the first quarter.
Senior Annie Brooks makes a free throw.
In the second quarter it was much of the same offensively for the Lady Yellow Jackets. While Alleghany started to knock down some shots and increase their lead. The game went to halftime with Alleghany holding a 23-15 lead over the Lady Yellow Jackets.
In the second half Hayesville started to find a little more of an offensive flow, scoring 11 in the third quarter and 16 in the fourth quarter. At this point though Alleghany had control and didn’t stop scoring themselves. Lila Payne broke out of a little slump in the second round game going three of four from three and had 10 points overall.
Hayesville battled hard to the end but just didn’t quite have that one last push in them on this night. The game ended with the Lady Yellow Jackets losing 58-42 with it being much closer than the score indicated.
One thing that could have changed the game was the foul count was Hayesville 27 and Alleghany only 11. It is something you expect a little on the road in the playoffs but was a little much. The free throw disparity gave Alleghany a huge advantage. Hayesville had four of five starters foul out with the fifth starter having four fouls. It would have been a much more interesting matchup had the Lady Yellow Jackets played this game on a neutral court.
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 Yellow Jackets advance to second round
Hayesville Basketball, Sports, TeamFYNSports February 26, 2020
The Hayesville Yellow Jackets hosted the Swain Co. Maroon Devils in the first round of the NCHSAA state playoffs Tuesday night. Hayesville the 5 seed had the home court advantage over the 28 seed Swain Co. Yet with this being the fourth meeting of the year between the two teams it had the potential for an interesting matchup. Hayesville was able to control the game though and dictate the style of play. This led to them beating Swain for the fourth time this year winning 68-48.
Junior Brady Shook finishes through contact for a tough two points.
In the first quarter it was back and forth with Hayesville struggling to hit shots. Foul trouble was a big issue for the Yellow Jackets as well. Swain held a lead for part of the first quarter yet thanks to a few late buckets Hayesville ending the first quarter leading 17-11. The second quarter set up to be interesting, Hayesville star point guard sophomore Kolbe Ashe picked up a second foul towards the end of the quarter.
Ashe did not play at all in the second quarter because of it and things set up well for Swain to possibly take control. Yet Hayesville battled through the adversity and it wasn’t always pretty but they managed to keep their lead. In fact thanks to a buzzer beating post move from Sophomore Jake McTaggart Hayesville increased their lead to eight to close the half. With Hayesville escaping the second quarter with a 31-23 lead knowing they would get both Ashe and senior Mark Cothren back in the second half from foul trouble had to feel good going into the break.
In the third quarter with their conductor back in Ashe, Hayesville started to take control. They were able to dictate the pace and were giving nothing easy to the Maroon Devils. Hayesville played with poise and consistency increasing their third quarter lead out to up 11. They got a great night out of Junior Hayden McClure who was cutting through defense all night. Every time you looked up he would be finishing another tough basket at the rim.
Coming into the fourth quarter Hayesville while not having a huge lead knew the win would be theirs. It never felt in danger and Swain could never cut into it enough to give themselves a chance. Hayesville put the final nail in the coffin with a mid fourth quarter run stretching their lead out 20. The game finished Hayesville winning 68-48 moving onto the second round of the playoffs.
Junior Hayden McClure with a strong finish for 2 of his 16 points.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Jake McTaggart 18 points
Hayden McClure 16 points
Kolbe Ashe 12 points
Brady Shook 10 points
Hayesville will next play in the 2nd round of the NCHSAA state playoffs hosting Pine Lake Prep at home on Thursday time TBA.
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