CORBIN — The North Laurel Jaguars to show growth while Harlan County continues to show it remains the team to beat in the 13th Region after surviving a 65-58 upset attempt by the Jaguars.
Nate Valentine’s squad was coming off an impressive win over Clay County while the Black Bears were doing the same, except their win came against Corbin.
“We got off to a good start and then had too many dry spells to beat a good team,” North Laurel coach Nate Valentine said. “Credit to Harlan County for locking down defensively. I’m proud of our guys for fighting to the end.”
North Laurel held a 10-7 lead after the first quarter while Harlan County rallied to tie the contest at 24 apiece at halftime.
Senior Trent Noah took matters into his own hands in the third quarter, scoring 18 of his game-high 30 points during the period as the Black Bears built a 48-39 advantage with eight minutes remaining.
The Jaguars attempted to rally in the fourth quarter behind eight points from Brody Brock, and Kole Jervis added seven points.
North Laurel’s rally fell short as Harlan County hit 4-of-9 shot attempts from the free-throw line in the final eight minutes.
Maddox Huff joined Noah in double figures with 16 points. Brock led North Laurel with 15 points while Reece Davidson (14 points), Jervis (12 points), and Rawlings (12 points) followed.
