MANCHESTER — The North Laurel Jaguars kept their hopes of three-praying as 13th Region champions alive by handing Jackson County a 64-50 loss during semifinal action of Wednesday’s 49th District Tournament.
After starting the season with a 2-8 record, the Jaguars have turned things around by playing one of the toughest schedules in the region.
They are now 15-6 during their past 21 games, and 17-14 overall.
“Credit to Jackson County for making things tough on us early,” North Laurel coach Nate Valentine said. “I’m proud of our guys for keeping composure early on and finding a way to win. We are excited to be back in the district finals and get in the region tournament again.”
Valentine’s squad was in for a battle against a Jackson County team that was more than ready.
The Generals (12-17) led 14-10 at the end of the first quarter before North Laurel righted the ship and took a 31-29 lead at halftime.
Two 3-pointers by Brody Brock combined with a long range shot from Kole Jervis extended the Jaguars’ lead to 52-45 entering the fourth quarter.
Brock added five points in the final eight minutes while Jervis chipped in four points to seal the win for North Laurel.
Jervis led the Jaguars with 16 points while Brock added 15 points. Jordan Rawlings turned in a stellar effort, hitting four 3-pointers and finishing with 14 points.
Carter Cungain led the Generals with a game high 18 points while Tydus Summers finished with eight points.
North Laurel advances to Friday’s 49th District title game, and will face-off against the region’s hottest team — Clay County.
The Tigers are winners of 13 straight while posting a 1-1 mark against the Jaguars this season.
