Friday, Dec. 5, was a busy night of basketball on the Plateau, with girls’ and boys’ teams battling in Smoky Mountain region matchups. The Lady Highlanders were the lone victorious team, securing a 47-38 homecoming win.
Highlands celebrated its annual Homecoming game against Hayesville High School, with Aidan Crook-Jenkins and Olivia Corbin crowned king and queen. The Lady Highlanders began the evening with an impressive showing, as three different players scored in double figures.
Senior Hunter Conner recorded her second career triple-double with 13 points, 13 rebounds and 10 blocks. Junior Charlotte Westendorf added 15 points with 5 rebounds, and junior Jordyn Borino posted 12 points. The Lady Highlanders improved to 2-1.
The boys are still in search of their first win after suffering a 65-45 defeat. Both teams will host Cherokee High School, which has won back-to-back state titles in girls’ basketball, at 6:30 and 8 p.m.
Summit Charter hosted Andrews High School, which swept the Bears in both games. The Lady Bears lost 62-35 and moved to 4-2 on the season.
The boys fell 61-37 despite strong performances from senior Chance Wilson, who scored 17, and senior August Stewart-Pain, who added 14. They dropped to 2-1. Summit will face Rosman High School on the road on Tuesday, Dec. 9, at 6 and 7:30 p.m.
Blue Ridge Early College traveled to Robbinsville High School to take on the 1-0 Black Knights girls’ and boys’ teams. The Lady Bobcats never found their rhythm and were beaten 50-19. The boys team also struggled in its matchup, falling 61-21. Both Bobcats’ teams slip to 1-3 and will welcome Swain County on Dec. 12 at 6 and 7:30 p.m.
- Mitch Stone
reporter@highlandsnews.com