Five Highlands girls basketball players took part in the West vs Mid-West 1A All-Star Basketball Games at Bessemer City High School on March 18.
They helped propel the West girls’ basketball team to a 91-76 win, the highest number of points scored in the history of the All-Star game.
“It’s always good for our girls to be recognized and invited to the All-Star game,” Highlands coach Brett Lamb said. “They work hard all season and being selected for the game is a testament to their effort. There are a lot of talented players in our conference and across our region, so it’s fun to see how they play together and the girls really enjoy it.”
Lamb served as one of the coaches of the West squad.
Blue Ridge’s Mahala Stewart was named the game’s MVP by Dr. Bud Black, director of the games, after scoring 22 points, securing seven rebounds, four assists, and two steals. Blue Ridge’s Mercedes McLaughlin captured seven points and one rebound.
“Mahalah showed why she is a future college basketball player, Player of the Year in our conference and an NCBCA All-District selection in District 12,” Blue Ridge athletic director and girls’ basketball coach Tim Mayse said. “They are both hard-nosed, respectful and competitive athletes, and they were able to showcase those traits during the game.”
The West team was comprised of Stewart, McLaughlin, Kiera Taylor from Hiwassee Dam, A.J. Hill from Cherokee, Kensley Phillips from Robbinsville, Lila Roberts from Hayesville, Bella Wilson from Highlands, Beatrice Bryson from Highlands, Lilly Bryson from Highlands, Maddie Spates from Swain County, Kamia Wiggins from Cherokee, Ezra Branham from Highlands, and Riley Conner from Highlands.
“Mahalah did a great job controlling the game with her ability to score and direct the offense, which is what she did for us all year long,” Mayse said. “Mercedes was very active on offense and defense, scoring multiple times in transition and guarding the other team’s best player. Mercedes excels in a full court game, so I was glad to see she had an opportunity to showcase her skills in that way.”
Among the Highlands players, Bea Bryson led the way with nine points, three rebounds and one assist. Bella Wilson added seven points and three rebounds. Lilly Bryson added two points and seven rebounds in the win.