Lady Yellow Jackets fall to rival Murphy
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 22, 2020
On Tuesday night January 21st, Hayesville hosted rival the Murphy Lady Bulldogs. This game last year Hayesville pulled off a big upset and were looking to do the same. Yet the Lady Bulldogs pressed for 4 quarters and made it very difficult on Hayesville. With too many turnovers and some missed offensive opportunities the Lady Yellow Jackets lost 54-34 falling 10-6 on the year and 4-3 in conference.
sophomore Lila Payne makes a three.
In the first quarter the Lady Jackets had some good chances that just rimmed out while the Lady Bulldogs capitalized on some transition opportunities. The quarter ended with Murphy leading 14-7 with Hayesville looking to make some adjustments.
In the second quarter Hayesville really frustrated Murphy by slowing the pace and making the Lady Bulldogs take contested shots. Murphy was trying to force it in but couldn’t get anything going early in the quarter. Hayesville actually held Murphy scoreless for the first six minutes of the quarter. It looked like Hayesville amy be able to cut the deficit to just a few points going into the half. Murphy answered in a big way with a 9-0 run in the last two minutes to extend their lead going into halftime 22-14.
Coming into the third quarter it was back and forth with Hayesville once again cutting the lead to under five points. Yet everytime Hayesville made a run Murphy would answer with a bigger run of their own. Hayesville got a great effort out of sophomore Lila Payne who hit big three after big three all night. She hit several with just inches to get it off, she had 22 points on the night to lead the way for the Lady Yellow Jackets. Yet the third quarter ended with Murphy on a run leading 40-25.
In the fourth quarter Hayesville kept playing hard until the final horn, but just didn’t have enough offense on this night to keep up. The game plan was great by head coach Chad McClure to slow the pace and frustrate Murphys offense. Yet the Lady Jackets just didn’t get enough done on the offensive side of the ball to pull of the upset on this night. The game finished with a lopsided score of 54-34 in favor of Murphy.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Lila Payne 22 points
Lizzy Brusini 5 points
The game was much closer than the score indicated due to some late scoring with reserves in the game. This is the last scheduled game between these two teams this year, but could we see another matchup possibly in the conference tournament or even the playoffs, only time will tell.
Hayesville will next play on the road, at Robbinsville to take on the Lady Black Knights Friday January 24th. The last time these two teams played it was an overtime thriller with Hayesville pulling out the victory.
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 cruise to 10th win
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 21, 2020
On Friday night January the 17th, Hayesville (9-5, 4-2) hosted the Nantahala Lady Hawks (2-13) in a non conference matchup. The Lady Yellow Jackets had already defeated the Lady Hawks in their first game of the year and Fridays results was much of the same. Both teams played hard but Hayesville was just the more talented team winning 73-11.
Junior Breanna Brunette lays it it on the fast break
In the first half the Lady Yellow Jackets got off to a fast start and pushed out to an early lead. They were aided by turnovers from Nantahala and finished strong on several fast break opportunities. All of the Lady Yellow Jackets were able to contribute to a solid first half. Going into the halftime break the game was all but over with the Lady Yellow Jackets leading 54-5 at the half.
In the second half things moved much quicker thanks to a running clock. Every Lady Yellow Jacket scored in the contest. It was good to see both teams playing hard but Hayesville overmatched their opponents on this night winning 73-11. Hayesville now has 10 wins on the season securing another double digit win season.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Brianna Foster 16 points
Lizzy Brusini 14 points
Jade Patterson 14 points
Lila Payne 12 points
Hayesville will next play at home, hosting the Murphy Lady Bulldogs on Tuesday January 21st in their second matchup of the year.
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 fall in conference matchup at Cherokee
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 15, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets traveled to take on the Cherokee Lady Indians on Tuesday night, Jan. 14. Cherokee won the game 74-56 with a fantastic offensive output that the Lady Yellow Jackets could not keep up with. Cherokee is a notoriously difficult place to play with one of the best home court advantages in the conference. Rarely is there a time when teams travel to Cherokee that they do not have a large crowd supporting the home team.
Senior Jade Patterson makes a three pointer.
In the first quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets did not get off to best start but did manage to score 11 points in the quarter. Yet because of some good defense they were able to hold the Lady Indians to only 13 points. Hayesville finished the quarter trailing 13-11 with it still being very much anyone’s game.
In the second quarter Hayesville was able to increase their offensive output scoring 15 points in the quarter. Yet it mattered little as Cherokee’s offense got hot and managed to score an incredible 22 points in the quarter. Hayesville defense was not perfect but credit the Lady Indians who made some tough shots. Hayesville went into halftime looking to make some adjustments with Cherokee holding a 35-26 lead.
In the third quarter though Cherokee carried over their hot shooting and increased their lead. It was starting to look like it just was not the Lady Yellow Jackets night. Hayesville ended the quarter trailing 56-40 and seemingly did not have an answer for the Lady Indians on this night.
Kynnly McClure skies high to recieve a pass from her teammate
In the fourth quarter with a 16-point lead, the Lady Indians offense just continued to produce. To the tune of 18 fourth quarter points. Hayesville managed their best scoring quarter of the night with 16 points themselves. Unfortunately Cherokee was able to control the pace the majority of the night and won 74-56. These two teams will meet again and don’t be surprised if you see Hayesville play them much closer in the comfort of their own gym.
Hayesville leaders for the night:
Jade Patterson, senior: 24 points; 8-of-12 from the 3-point line.
Brianna Foster, junior: 11 points and nine rebounds
Hayesville will next play at home, hosting the Nantahala Lady Hawks on Friday night, Jan. 17.
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Former Hayesville star Amanda Thompson honored
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 11, 2020
On Friday night January the 10th former Hayesville Lady Yellow Jacket Amanda Thompson had her jersey retired. To say Thompson had a noteworthy career would minimized all that she truly accomplished. Not only did Thompson have a storied career at Hayesville, she went on to possibly have an even better one in college.
It is difficult to describe the challenges she overcame to accomplish all that she did. She went from a small 1a North Carolina high school to playing at the highest level in college. Not only was she on the team she was a star, starting all but one game in her college career. You may ask what was the one game she did not start. Her junior year she told her coach to let a senior start in her place on senior night. That describes the type of person she was/is, selfless and team first always. She was a four year captain while at Mercer as well, very few if ever get chosen to be a captain as a freshman but that speaks to her leadership ability.
One could write 20,000 words on the type of person and player Amanda Thompson was in her career. Rather though were going to share an exclusive interview with her as well as her former high school coach and included a list of her most notable accomplishments in college and high school.
Exclusive Q&A with Amanda Thompson
Q: What is your fondest memory of playing basketball at Hayesville?
A: My junior year when we made it to the final four in Greensboro it snowed. We got to stay a couple extra days because of the snow. Each morning my roommates Rachel Benson, Stephanie Patton and I solved the newspaper crossword. We beat Cherokee in the elite eight but lost to Bishop McGuiness in the semifinals. That whole trip with the team and everybody was so much fun.
Q: What do you miss the most about playing for Hayesville?
A: The community but now it’s nice because I don’t have to miss it, I get to be back in it, with teaching and getting to help with the team. At Mercer I had it there but it was just different. It was not as homey as being at Hayesville, just the community, how much everybody is behind our team and players.
Q: Do you still keep in touch with any of your teammates?
A: Yes, especially now that I am at home I get to see many of them.
Q: How big of a difference was playing at Mercer vs. playing at Hayesville?
A: I know I talked about the community of playing at Hayesville, I think Mercer had a similar community because of the small school environment so that was awesome. Obviously though playing in college it’s just a higher level, a faster pace and more intense. Yet there is something about playing high school basketball that’s so much fun.
Q: I know you talked about it a little. Do you plan to stay in coaching, in basketball in general, did you have any professional opportunities?
A: If I had wanted to play professionally I could have gone overseas but it wasn’t what I was interested in. I planned on pursuing an engineering career but God had other plans for me, which I am very thankful for. I have taken a teaching job at Hayesville and I am loving it.
Q:High school and college what was your biggest accomplishment?
A:Team accomplishment In high school it was obviously the final four year that was awesome. Individually it was reaching the 1000 rebound mark. As a team it would be going undefeated two years straight in conference. Again individual accomplishment in college it would have to be a toss up between 1st team Academic all american and SOCON female athlete of the year.
Exclusive Q&A with Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets head coach Chad McClure:
Q: At Hayesville what is the baseline/criteria to have your jersey number retired?
A: Normal Criteria is 1st of all have the statistical side and wait until a time period of at least 5 years. A coach has to make a nomination then meet with a selected committee to discuss the athlete. Along with the athletic side, the former student-athlete also has to have great character and be a good role model.
Q: Is this your first former player to get their jersey retired? If so what does that mean to you as a coach?
A: This is the 1st player I have coached to have this honor. I feel very blessed and honored to be a part of her story. She is the one that put all the work and time in. I am so happy for her.
Q: What was it like to coach Amanda Thompson/how was she different from your typical player?
A: Amanda was one of a kind. Her Basketball IQ and work ethic were incredible. She was a coach on the floor and made everyone around her better. She modeled the qualities of what you look for in a leader. She walked the walk on and off the floor. She handled adversity in high school that some never face. She watched her mom battle cancer throughout her high school career. She never missed a practice, open gym, shootaround, walkthrough, meeting, etc. To see what she accomplished, and knowing what she had to go through speaks volumes about her and her parents.
Q: What is one or two moments/games that you specifically remember about her career?
A: There are many moments I remember about Amanda but one specifically was during the SMC Tournament Championship game at Swain. We were playing Cherokee. Amanda got a Defensive Rebound, pushed the ball in transition to the top of the key and made a behind the back pass to a teammate in the corner for a 3. She didn’t normally do all the flashy things like that. She was a workhorse but that moment was one of those moments that everyone in the gym went WOAH! She had many moments where she shined on and off the court.
Q: What is it like to have Amanda Thompson back on the bench with you helping your current team some this year?
A: It is truly amazing to have her back helping. She has a way to make everyone around her better in everything she does. She represents everything I am trying to promote in our program. She is real and loves people genuinely. God is definitely at work in her life
Q: Anything else you would like to say about Amanda Thompson or her career as a Yellow Jacket?
A: Amanda is a strong, kind, Christian person with a servant’s heart. As a Coach, you try to teach your players that there is more to learn than wins and losses. I hope I was able to teach Amanda half as much as she taught me. Amanda is a winner and I thank God for allowing Amanda to be a part of my family and profession. If I had a daughter, I would want her to be like Amanda.
It was a special night and one that was beyond deserved. There are very few players like Thompson that come along in sports. Especially in a small town like Hayesville. One might say because of the small town she grew up in though that it helped her be the student, high character individual and overall great person she is.
Collegiate Accomplishments:
- 2019 Socon Female Athlete of the Year
- 2019 Southern Conference Player of the Year
- 2019 College Sports Information Directors of America Academic All-America First Team
- 2019 All-Southern Conference First Team
- 2019Socon All-Tournament First Team
- 2019 Southern Conference Preseason All-Conference
- 2019 Conference Tournament Pinnacle award
- 2019 Ann Lashley Inspiration Award
- 2018 Conference Tournament Pinnacle award
- 2018 SoCon Academic All-Conference
- 2018 SoCon All-Tournament Second Team
- 2018 CoSIDA Academic All-District IV Team
- 2018 SoCon Student-Athlete of the Week (Dec. 6)
- 2017 SoCon Academic All-Conference Team
- 2017 SoCon Student-Athlete of the Week (Dec. 7)
- Socon 3 time player of the month in the 2018-19 season
- Started 129 out 130 possible collegiate games
- Had 16 double doubles her senior season
- Led the team with .515% shooting percentage her junior season
- Finished her collegiate career with 3788 minutes played averaging 29.1 minutes played per game.
- Finished her collegiate career with 210 assists
- Finished her collegiate career with 204 steals
- Finished her collegiate career with 945 points
- Finished her collegiate career with 971 rebounds
High School Accomplishments:
Team
- 77 Wins
- 1 Conference Championship
- 1 Conference Tournament Championship
- 2 Battle of the States Championships
- an Elite 8 appearance and a Final Four game in the NC 1-A playoffs.
- Four-year letterwinner for Hayesville, playing for Coach Chad McClure
- Helped her team to a 2014 North Carolina 1A Final Four appearance, as well as championships at the 2014 Smokey Mountain Tournament and the 2013 Battle of the States Tournament
Individually, Amanda accumulated many great stats and awards including:
- Four-year letterwinner for Hayesville, playing for Coach Chad McClure
- 4 Time All-Big SMC player
- 1-A NC prep All-State Team twice
- SMC Player of the year 2014-2015
- 2014 NCCA All-District, N.C. All-Region Team
- Named to the Battle of the State All-Tournament team in 2012 and 2014
- Named Battle of the States MVP in 2014
- Named 2014 and 2015 Hayesville High School Female Athlete of the Year
- 2014-2015 Regional All-Tournament Player
- 2015 Coaches vs. Cancer MVP at UNCA
- Blue-White All-Star game selection
- 1-A west vs. midwest All-Star selection
- Played in the NC East-West All-Star Game
- 1408 Points, 1056 Rebounds, 345 Blocks, 313 Assists, 324 Steals
Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets cruise to easy victory
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 11, 2020
On Friday night, Jan. 10, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Andrews Lady Wildcats. Regardless of records it was an important game with conference standings to think of. Andrews record coming into the game was nothing to write home about but are young and improving team.
Junior Brianna Foster finishes through a foul.
In the first quarter there was actually a little bit of back and forth. The Lady Wildcats pushed the Lady Yellow Jackets more than most would have expected. The Lady Yellow Jackets were able to get some needed points in the paint. Junior Brianna Foster provided it for Hayesville with seven first quarter points. Hayesville closed the quarter with a 12-8 lead.
The second quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets really tightened the defensive clamps in the second quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets also upped their scoring in the second quarter, with 14 points. Ten of those points came from Senior Jade Patterson with two big three pointers. Hayesville ended the half with a 26-11 lead.
Coming into the third quarter Hayesville had no plans to let up and looked to increase their lead. Once again the combination of Andrews offensive struggles and Hayesvilles great defense kept the Lady Wildcats to only four points in the quarter. Hayesville ended the third quarter with a few late buckets and 38-15 lead.
Coming into the fourth quarter with the game in hand Hayesville continued to execute offensively for another 13 points. They got scoring from five different players in the quarter. The Lady Yellow Jackets were able to cruise to a 51 to 22 victory.
Sophomore Lila Payne makes a three.
Point leaders:
Brianna Foster 17 points
Lila Payne 12 points
Jade Patterson 11 points
The Lady Yellow Jackets had a well rounded performance with many players contributing. Sometimes it can be hard to play games like this but the Lady Yellow Jackets played hard. They were able to continue growing as a team and get ready for harder games to come.
To get updates or see how the Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Lady Yellow Jackets survive fourth-quarter scare to win
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 7, 2020
The Hayesville girls basketball team held on late to earn a 38-37 win against Highlands on Monday, Jan. 6, at home. This was the first of three games this week for Hayesville and a great chance for them to get their week started on a good note. The Lady Yellow Jackets have been struggling at times to get off to good starts, often putting themselves in holes that are hard to climb out of.
Junior Kynnly McClure beats a defender off the dribble.
This proved to be the case against Highlands as the Lady Yellow Jackets found themselves down 10-2 at the end of the first quarter. Hayesville played pretty good defense and had some good looks on the offensive side of the ball, yet the shots were not falling and Hayesville had their lowest scoring quarter of the year.
Coming into the second quarter, head coach Chad McClure made some adjustments and the team began to play completely different. The Lady Yellow Jackets came back in impressive fashion with 17 second-quarter points. Hayesville was led in the half by senior guard Jade Patterson who had 10 points, eight of which came in the second quarter to help give the Lady Yellow Jackets a 19-17 halftime lead.
The third quarter was all about the Lady Yellow Jackets stellar defense, as they managed to score just nine points in the quarter. Yet their strong team defense held Highlands to only five points in the frame. Hayesville got two big baskets from junior Kynnly McClure to lead them in the quarter. With all that put together, the Lady Yellow Jackets finished the third quarter with a 28-22 lead.
Junior Brianna Burnette makes a strong post move for the score.
They would need every point of that lead coming into the fourth quarter to try and escape with a victory. The Lady Yellow Jackets and Highlands were both into the double bonus with several minutes left in the game. The last few minutes were a bit of a free-throw shooting contest with Highlands making double-digit fourth-quarter free throws. With Highlands down one with three seconds left, coach Jake Page drew up a great play and his team had a great shot as time expired. The ball went up and the gym was silent. The ball bounced off the rim on two sides before falling away and the cheers from the Hayesville side were loud as the Lady Jackets sealed a one-point win, 38-37.
In post game talks with Hayesville head coach Chad McClure, he said sometimes you just have to survive regardless of how you play. He was proud of his team for finding a way to win. Hayesville was led by senior Jade Patterson with 12 points and sophomore Lila Payne with nine points.
Hayesville travels to the Hiwassee Dam Lady Eagles on Tuesday night for a non-conference matchup.
Weekly Lady Yellow Jackets review and preview
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 6, 2020
Let’s take a look at the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets previous week from 12/30-1/05. The Lady Yellow Jackets finally got a well deserved holiday break after playing in the very competitive Battle of the States tournament. Head Coach Chad McClure gave the team a practice or two off and said his team would focus on the fundamentals once they started back. They played only one game a, a saturday matchup with border rivals Towns Co.
Annie Brooks launches a three.
In their game against the Towns Co. Lady Indians Hayesville came in knowing they would have be ready to handle full court pressure. Head Coach Chad McClure and staff had the Lady Yellow Jackets ready from the get go. They got off to a great start to gain an early lead and important early game momentum. The Lady Indians fought back and never allowed Hayesville to increase their first quarter lead by more than a few points. Yet they also could never get over the hump to take a lead of their own. Hayesville defeated Towns Co. for the second time in as many weeks 46-37.
This upcoming week should be a great week for basketball fans as the Lady Yellow Jackets have a full three game slate. They start the week hosting Highlands followed by an away game a short drive away to Hiwassee Dam. They wrap up their week up their week by hosting a conference opponent in the Andrews Lady Wildcats. Friday evening will a special treat for Yellow Jackets fans as Hayesville will be retiring Amanda Thompson #20 jersey after a storied high school and college career. There will be a full interview exclusive with Amanda Thompson later this week.
Coaches Corner weekly exclusive interview with head coach Chad McClure:
- Another good win over Towns Co. what was the key to the game for your team coach?
Going in we knew we had to handle their pressure and really force them into a half court game. We got the lead early and defensively we were able to slow them down enough even when our shots weren’t falling.
- With more games three than practice this week how do you handle game planning?
We just take it one day at a time. At this point in the season, most of our system is in so we just focus on minor adjustments and stress taking care of ourselves and focusing on the task at hand.
- You seem to be getting different leading scorers each game. What does that say about your team’s flexibility?
All 8 of our players contribute in their own way. This team is very united and works well together. They share the ball and don’t care who gets the credit.
- Anything you would like to share about your three opponents this week for readers to look out for?
Highlands is a scrappy team similar to us. Hiwassee Dam is good with a lot of size. Andrews is rebuilding but their kids play hard.
Kynnly McClure skies high to recieve a pass from her teammate
Preview:
In the first game of the week the Lady Yellow Jackets will be hosting the Highland Lady Highlanders. The Lady Highlanders come into the game 4-6 but don’t let their record fool you. They have played some tough competition, a one point loss to Franklin, win over Hiwassee Dam, Towns Co and Brevard. It appears in this game the two teams could be fairly evenly matched. This game will come down to three things in my opinion, first taking care of the ball to limit turnovers. Secondly if one team has a large margin in rebounding that could be the difference. Lastly offensive execution will be big, who can get it to their scorers in effective places.
On Tuesday night the Lady Yellow Jackets will travel across county lines and head to Hiwassee Dam. The Lady Eagles are 4-6 coming into the game but are on an upswing winning all four of those games within their last five. As well they are a well coach disciplined group with quite a bit of size to contend with. Hayesville will look to keep their trio of Junior post players Brianna Burnette, Kynnly McClure and Jocelin Buckner out of foul trouble. If Hayesville three player rotation can provide some rebound and force tough shots the Lady Yellow Jackets stand a good chance to win.
After a couple of practices Hayesville will wrap up their week with their only conference game of the week hosting the Andrews Lady Wildcats. It should be a special night with the jersey retirement of former Hayesville star Amanda Thomspon. The Lady Yellow Jackets are sure to want to get a good result for their former player on her big night. The task should be doable. The Lady Wildcats are a young scrappy group but are just not ready to compete at the highest level in the conference this year.
The Lady Yellow Jackets have three winnable games this week. The question is can they get off to better starts that plagued them in the Battle of the States? I believe they can and showed they have made progress with that against Towns Co. last week. The prediction is 3-0 this week but more games than practice in a week can be a tough task. It will require high focus and good execution for the Lady Yellow Jackets to do it.
To get updates or see how the Lady Yellow Jackets have done tune in to all the latest coverage FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville girls earn second win against Towns Co.
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 5, 2020
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets hosted the Towns Co. Lady Indians on Saturday, Jan.4, and used a strong all-around performance to earn a 46-37 victory.
Junior Breanna Burnette makes a free throw
Hayesville has been plagued with slow offensive starts in recent weeks. That was not the case this week as the Lady Yellow Jackets put up 15 first-quarter points. By holding Towns Co. to only 10 points, they escaped the first quarter with a five-point lead. Hayesville also got five big points off the bench from junior Jocelyn Buckner in the first quarter.
Moving into the second quarter, both teams struggled offensively and it was a bit of a grind. Towns Co. was running pressure defense and Hayesville couldn’t break through to get into any sets. Hayesville only had five points in the second quarter while Towns Co. only made one shot – a 3-pointer – in the quarter. Led by sophomore Lila Payne with seven points the Lady Yellow Jackets led 20-13 at the half.
Coming out in the third quarter both teams found more offensive success and traded punches in the quarter. Towns Co. was trying to claw their way back and Hayesville was trying to extend their lead. Neither team was able to do so in the third quarter and they stalemated 12-12 in the period.
Junior Lizzy Brusini dribbles through traffic.
Hayesville gave up no ground in the fourth quarter, fighting hard, making some big shots, and playing solid defense. Hayesville got points from four different players in the quarter to help them seal their victory. The Lady Yellow Jackets managed to hang on late to earn the 46-37 victory.
Hayesville was led by Payne with 14 points and also got a double digit effort out of Buckner off the bench with 10 points.
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Weekly Hayesville Lady Yellow Jacket review/preview
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports January 2, 2020
Let’s start by taking a look at the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets’ previous week. Dec.22 through Dec. 28, the Lady Yellow Jackets participated in the annual Battle of the States Christmas Tournament hosted by Towns Co. High in Hiawassee. The Lady Yellow Jackets played in three very tough, highly-competitive games. They finished the tournament 1-2 but were only a few shots and a couple of bounces from winning each of their games. After a solid tournament, senior Jade Patterson was the Lady Yellow Jackets all-tournament selection.
Junior Brianna Foster finishes strong.
The Lady Yellow Jackets started off the tournament with a first round matchup with Hokes Bluff, from Alabama. Hayesville got off to a rough start getting down 11-0 early in the game. After a timeout and a defensive change up, the Yellow Jackets fought back. After the bad start, they played even or possibly even a little better than their opponent. Unfortunately the bad start was too much to overcome and Hayesville fell 53-46. The Lady Yellow Jackets were led by Patterson who scored 16 points.
In the second game of the tournament, the Lady Yellow Jackets took on their state line rivals and tournament host Towns Co. Hayesville was the one who got off to a hot start this game taking an early 17-5 lead against Towns Co. The Lady Indians chipped away at the Hayesville lead, outscoring the Lady Yellow Jackets in the next two quarters. The Lady Yellow Jackets would not be denied and hit some big shots down the stretch to seal the win 49-42. Hayesville got another big performance out of Patterson, who scored 19 points and pulled down eight rebounds. Sophomore Lila Payne chipped in 11 points to be the other Lady Yellow Jackets double digit scorer.
Breanna Burnette makes a free throw.
In the third game of the tournament, the Lady Yellow Jackets took on Lumpkin Co. As they did in the first game of the tournament, Hayesville got off to a slow start. The Lady Yellow Jackets had some good shots that didn’t fall and Lumpkin Co. got off to a hot shooting start. Hayesville battled hard over the last three quarters but the slow start was too much to overcome. The Lady Yellow Jackets fell 50-34 but got another strong performance from Payn,e who had double digit points for the second game in a row with 14.
Coaches Corner weekly exclusive interview with head coach Chad McClure:
1. How did you feel overall about your team’s performance in the Battle of the States tournament?
Overall, we learned a lot about ourselves and things we need to work on. In the two games we lost we didn’t start well and couldn’t recover. Defensively, we continue to improve. We competed and had chances to win. We need to use the experience to help us down the road.
2. How do you feel about your team’s offensive execution and point production?
We didn’t shoot well at times and turned the ball over too much, which led to early deficits. At times we execute and score well, we just need to work on it more consistently. We have to cut down on turnovers and continue to improve offensively. You have to give credit to the other teams defenses as well.
3. With one game on the schedule this week what will practice this week be focused on?
We will work a lot of fundamentals, address areas of concern, and continue to work on improving.
4. That one game being Towns Co. who you beat in the tournament. What do you do to get another successful outcome?
We will have to handle their full court pressure and really make them work on the defensive end. They have some good players who are tough to stop. It will be a competitive game as it always is.
Weekly Preview:
Senior Jade Patterson dribbles through traffic.
The Lady Yellow Jackets will got a well deserved break and only play one game this week. They play their last scheduled Saturday game of the year at home against rival Towns Co. Lady Indians on Saturday, Jan. 4. It should be a racaus environment, the Lady Yellow Jackets defeated the Lady Indians in their tournament last week. The Lady Indians will be looking for revenge and the Lady Yellow Jackets will need to get off to a good start. Hayesville will have the advantage of rest with not having played since the tournament and Towns Co. playing Friday night, Jan. 3.
Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports
Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets fall to the Murphy Lady Bulldogs
Hayesville Basketball, TeamFYNSports December 20, 2019
On Thursday night, Dec. 19, the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets (2-1, 1-0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A) took the trip across the county line to take on their bitter rivals, the Murphy Lady Bulldogs (3-0, 1-0). The game was an interesting matchup as the only conference loss Murphy took last year was against Hayesville.
Annie Brooks launches a three.
The first quarter was highly contested with the Lady Yellow Jackets and the Lady Bulldogs trading punches. One of Hayesvilles keys to their early-season success has been strong offensive execution. That was on display early with the Lady Yellow Jackets at one point running their motion offense for 75 seconds. Unfortunately, their strong offensive execution in the first quarter while leading to good looks was not resulting in points. This resulted in the Lady Jackets ending the first quarter trailing the Lady Bulldogs 17-8.
The Lady Bulldogs put all of their talent on display in the second quarter much to the Lady Jackets dismay. The Lady Jackets were able to match their first quarter scoring total in the second quarter but it was not enough to keep up. The Lady Bulldogs poured it on in the second quarter thanks to their high-pressure defense and hot shooting, scoring 21 second quarter points and leading 38-16 at the half.
It was more of the same in the second half with the Lady Bulldogs controlling the action. The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets were playing hard but the Lady Bulldogs press defense gave the Lady Jackets a hard time. At the end of the third, the Lady Bulldogs led 62-29.
Coming into the fourth quarter, the Lady Yellow Jackets did not give up and actually outscored the Lady Bulldogs by nine points in the fourth quarter. This came with most of the Bulldog starters still in the game and showed that while the score was insurmountable. The Lady Yellow Jackets could play with them and may possibly show them what to do before their next matchup.
Brianna Foster drives to the lane for two.
The Jackets did have a few strong performances in the game being led in scoring by junior Brianna Foster with 15. Senior Annie Brooks chipped eight while both junior Lizzy Brusini and Senior Jade Patterson had six points a piece.
The Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets (3-2, 2-1) will next take the floor at home Friday Dec 20th against the Robbinsville Lady Black Knights (2-0, 0-0).
Brianna Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Hayesville Basketball, Player of the Week, TeamFYNSports December 15, 2019
Brianna Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Foster, a junior post player, averaged 12.3 points per game during the week as Hayesville (3-1, 2-0 Big Smoky Mountain 1-A) earned the first two conference wins of the season.
After the Lady Yellow Jackets dropped a tough, 47-32 game at Franklin on Monday, Dec. 9, the team rebounded to take down Rosman 55-32 in Hayesville on Tuesday, Dec. 10.
Foster played well in both games, showing that she is quick to act when she gets the ball and does most of her damange inside the paint with a variety of post moves.
Foster finished the week with her biggest game, scoring 20 points and pulling down 12 rebounds in a 60-42 victory against Swain Co. on Friday, Dec. 13, in Hayesville.
For her efforts, Foster is the TeamFYNSports Writer’s Player of the Week for the Lady Yellow Jackets!
Hayesville Girls Earn Victory Against Swain Co.
Hayesville High, TeamFYNSports December 14, 2019
On Friday the Swain Maroon Lady Devils traveled to Clay county to take on the Hayesville Lady Yellow Jackets. The Lady Devils entered the competition 1-1 while the Lady Yellow Jackets entered the competition 2-1. This game was an important early season matchup for conference positioning.
In talks pregame head coach Chad McClure said the key to game for Hayesville would be offensive execution. Well the Jackets got off to a shaky start in the first few minutes but settled in. To do that Hayesville went to the post and Brianna Foster did not disappoint scoring 6 of the 12 first quarter points for the Lady Jackets. This gave the Lady Jackets an early 12- 8 lead after the first quarter ended.
Kynnly McClure skies high to receive a pass from her teammate
The second quarter was back and forth with the Lady Devils fighting back closing in on the Jackets lead. In response Hayesville ratcheted up their defensive pressure fighting back against the Lady Devils forcing them into several turnovers. Then with some timely three point shooting by Lizzy Brusini and Annie Brooks the Lady Jackets were able to end the quarter on a run and extend their lead to 7 making the score 24-17 at the half.
After making adjustments at the half head coach Chad McClure had his Lady Yellow Jackets executing offensively to their highest scoring quarter yet. Netting sixteen points in the third quarter the Lady Yellow Jackets were able to continue building on their lead. They once again started feeding the ball down low to their post players to which several players contributed with a total of ten points in the paint.
Coming into the 4th quarter Hayesville continued to execute at a high level resulting in an offensive explosion netting twenty 4th quarter points. That combined with stellar defense just put the game out of reach for the Lady Devils who just couldn’t hold on any longer. This allowed the Jackets to finish the game comfortably winning 60 to 42.
The Jackets consistency tonight allowed them to never feel out of control of the game. The Lady Jackets won each quarter of the game and also either matched or increased their scoring each quarter along the way. Senior Jade Patterson was a steadying influence for the young team by scoring in every quarter finishing the game with 11 points. Junior Brianna Foster led the way for the Lady Jackets with a 20 point performance. Foster executed well with all of her points coming in paint on a variety of post moves, quick finishes and putbacks from offensive rebounds.
The Lady Jackets will next take the court at Murphy on Thursday December 19th for a 6:30 tip against the defending conference champions Murphy Lady Bulldogs, this game should be a good barometer for where this young team is at. Remember to tune in all the latest coverage of Lady Yellow Jacket Basketball with FYN sports on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and at https://claync.fetchyournews.com/category/teamfynsports/.