ASHLAND – Eddie Mahan’s North Laurel Lady Jaguars started strong, but failed to finish against No. 10 Ashland on Saturday.
The Lady Jaguars (12-5) built a 17-6 lead in the first quarter, and led 29-21 at halftime before being outscored, 44-23, in the second half, en route to a 65-52 loss.
After starting the season with a 9-1 mark, the Lady Jaguars are 3-4 during their last seven games — all losses though came against ranked teams — Ocoee, Fla., No. 13 South Laurel, No. 12 Campbell County, and No. 10 Ashland. Their other loss came against No. 1 Assumption.
“Same issues, different game,” North Laurel coach Eddie Mahan said. “We are a good team, but we are not where we need to be yet. When that’s the case, it starts at the top, with me. Our attention to basketball fundamentals has to be better, and we have to have stronger, more consistent leadership in critical moments. Those shortcomings showed up again and ultimately cost us another opportunity.
“Playing top-10 teams multiple times is a challenge and a privilege, and it shows the level we’re trying to stay,” he added. “But at some point, competing isn’t enough, you have to break through and win those games to earn your place. We’re close, but close doesn’t count. The responsibility to get us over that hump starts with me, and we’ll go back to work to make sure we take the next step.”
Mariella Claybrook led North Laurel with 18 points while Bella Lewis added 12 points. Laylee Phillips scored seven points while Bella Mahan scored six points.
