GATLINBURG, TENN. — Despite facing the toughest team to date, according to coach Eddie Mahan, North Laurel found a way to win on Friday.
The Lady Jaguars improved to an unbeaten 8-0 after defeating Harpeth Hall High School, 59-47.
The win advances North Laurel into Saturday’s championship game of the Smoky Mountain Classic.
“This was the most talented and skilled team we have played so far,” Mahan said. “They have a really good player, who is committed to Harvard and a team full of shooters. Every time our team made errors in our rotation or was lazy on a close out, we paid for it.
“The luxury that I have this year though is we have so many weapons,” he added. “If any of our players get in foul trouble we can still adapt and get the job done.”
North Laurel took charge in the first quarter, building a 21-8 lead behind nine points from Brooke Nichelson and four points apiece from Mariella Claybrook and Bella Sizemore.
The Lady Jaguars held a 31-20 edge at halftime before taking a 43-23 advantage into the final quarter.
Claybrook and Sizemore led North Laurel with 18 points apiece while Nichelson added 14 points.
