MCKEE — The more things change the more they stay the same.
Case in point — North Laurel’s 57-48 win over Jackson County on Friday. The Jaguars had picked up a 66-48 decision over the Generals just the day before.
North Laurel moved to 12-13, just one game shy of .500 after the starting the season 2-8. The Jaguars are now 6-1 against 49th District opponents.
The loss dropped Jackson County to 11-14, and 3-4 vs. district competition.
“That was a really good road win,” North Laurel coach Nate Valentine said. “Credit to Jackson County for getting on us early. Our defensive effort was much better after the first quarter. Our guys fought and found a way to win. Very proud of them.”
The Generals jumped out to a 19-10 lead in the first quarter before North Laurel battled back to claim a slim 27-26 advantage at halftime.
Five points by Joe Smith and four points by Cooper Elza in the third quarter allowed the Jaguars to build a 42-33 lead into the fourth quarter before seven points by Brody Brock in the final eight minutes allowed the Jaguars to seal the win.
Smith led North Laurel with 12 points while Kole Jervis added 11 points. Elza and Brock scored nine points apiece.
Carter Cunnagin led the Generals with 12 points while Landon Dezarn scored 11 points. Keagan Ward and Ashton Clemens scored eight points apiece.
