North Laurel got off to a better start and cruised to a 69-31 win at home over Clay County on Friday, January 20. The Lady Jaguars extended their 49th District win streak to 38 games.
North Laurel (13-4) defeated Clay County earlier in the season, 65-33, and did not disappoint in front of their home crowd as they picked up their 12th straight win over the Lady Tigers.
North Laurel came out strong and took a 21-11 lead at the end of the first quarter, and turned up the pressure in the second quarter as they outscored the Lady Tigers 21-5 to take a 42-16 lead at the half.
The Lady Jaguars had four players in double-figures as Chloe McKnight led the way with 16 points, while Bella Sizemore scored 15 points, and Brooke Nichelson added 13 points. Jaelyn Black chipped in 10 points for North Laurel.
Bella Sizemore feels her team is poised to make a deep run not only in the region but also in the state this year.
“Mahan says tough games get you ready for the postseason and that’s what we are all here to do,” Sizemore said. “Not only win region, but also make a deep run in state and I’m pretty sure out team can. We’re talented and have a dominate post player, and good point guards. Emily Sizemore leads us out there. I know she’s my sister and I don’t want to brag on her a lot, but she gets us going out there.”
North Laurel will travel to Frederick Douglas on Saturday, and Clay County will host Oneida Baptist.
Tim Branstetter, Sports Writer for The Kentucky Daily