![](\"https:\/\/www.13thregionmedianetwork.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/12\/img_6176-1-1024x683.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"GATLINBURG, TENN. \u2014 Despite facing the toughest team to date, according to coach Eddie Mahan, North Laurel found a way to win on Friday.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Lady Jaguars improved to an unbeaten 8-0 after defeating Harpeth Hall High School, 59-47.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The win advances North Laurel into Saturday\u2019s championship game of the Smoky Mountain Classic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThis was the most talented and skilled team we have played so far,\u201d Mahan said. \u201cThey 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. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
\u201cThe luxury that I have this year though is we have so many weapons,\u201d he added. \u201cIf any of our players get in foul trouble we can still adapt and get the job done.\u201d<\/p>\n\n\n\n
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.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Lady Jaguars held a 31-20 edge at halftime before taking a 43-23 advantage into the final quarter.<\/p>\n\n\n\n