By Patrick Ledington
MANCHESTER — Two All “A” schools squared off Saturday in the Bobby Keith Classic as Jackson County pulled away from Middlesboro for a 61-45 victory.
The Generals earned the win in a high-energy contest fueled by their unselfish offensive approach. The theme of Jackson County’s offense is “one more,” and the Generals consistently moved the ball to find the best possible shot. That passing attack led to a three-point parade early.
Jackson County knocked down three of its nine three-pointers in the first quarter, building an 18-8 lead by the end of the opening period.
The Generals stayed hot from beyond the arc in the second quarter, with three different players connecting from long range. Jackson County carried a 30-22 advantage into halftime.
Middlesboro continued to battle in the second half, but eventually ran out of steam. Jackson County buried more three-pointers after the break, and strong post play from junior Joona Holm helped keep the Yellow Jackets at bay as the Generals pulled away for the 61-45 win.
Junior Brennon Combs led Jackson County with 13 points. Wyatt Gray added 11, while Joona Holm finished with 10 for the Generals.
