LONDON — Senior Brooke Nichelson continued her hot hand during North Laurel’s first two games, knocking down six 3-pointers while adding a game-high 33 points and seven rebounds during the Lady Jaguars 74-33 win over Hazard on Thursday.
“We didn’t play up to our expectations tonight,” North Laurel coach Eddie Mahan said. “Our defense was lacking energy and purpose. It was most noticeable in our talking. No matter the subs or who was in the lack of energy was the same. I did not have them ready to come out the way we needed to. We were able to refocus and play a much better third quarter. The expectations of our program are always high and this year is no different.
“Brooke had a stellar game again tonight and I think anyone who has eyes can see what she can do on both ends of the floor,” he added. “It’s on the defensive side though that I expect even more contributions. She’s special and I expect her to show it every day and every way.
“Mariella Claybrook had a good game and she is always a rock on the defensive side of the ball,” mahan continued. “You were able to start to see her blossom on the offensive side too. She is an unbelievable player. We once again had multiple players score. After 11 players scored on Monday we had nine score tonight. That is going to be the key to our success this year. We are talented and deep and we are going to show it.”
Nichelson set the tone early with 11 points, propelling North Laurel (2-0) to a 21-9 lead at the end of the first quarter and the Lady Jaguars never looked back.
Mahan’s squad led 41-21 at half time and 67-27 entering the fourth quarter.
North Laurel finished the game with 11 3-pointers while Mariella Claybrook added 11 points and seven rebounds, and Haley Combs added seven points. Bella Sizemore finished with six points while Bella Mahan added five points.
The Lady Jaguars will be back in action at home Saturday at 6 p.m. against Rockcastle County.
