[LAUREL, MS] On Friday night, the Laurel Knighthawks took on the Scott County Flames in Salem “The Nest” Heights. This was a very important game for both teams. The Knighthawks had to prove that the Laurel dynasty was far from over, while the Flames had to prove that their dynasty was just beginning. Knighthawk players knew that they had to play well, not just for a statement win that would send a message around the league, but also for themselves. Early on this season, the Knighthawks have struggled with consistency. However, Laurel had a chance to take a big win over an improved Scott County team in a MSAHA Primetime game.
The game couldn’t have started out better for the Knighthawks. The first quarter ended in a 20-4 lead. Laurel’s main contributor in the frame was Brayden Dry who scored 11 of his eventual 18 points in the quarter. The half ended with the score standing at 37-14 Laurel. Laurel’s point guard, Caleb Blankenship, had 8 points in the second quarter and took control of the game at the end of the half.
The second half saw the Knighthawks use a heavy amount of bench play. This allowed the Knighthawks to play solid defense with fresh legs. Scott County posted only 16 points in their highest scoring period, and left the gym with only 45 points. Laurel ended the night with a 61-45 win.
The aggressive defensive play and team oriented offense that Laurel displayed will have to continue for them to reach their goal of repeating as state champions. Brayden Dry led the Knighthawks in scoring with 18 points, Caleb Blankenship was next on the leaderboard with a solid 13 points. Skyler Haden scored 8 points and played exceptional defense.
The Knighthawks get the week off for the Thanksgiving day holiday. This will give them the chance to celebrate their tough fought win with some turkey and dressing (and yes maybe the chance to watch and play some football). Regular season play for the Knighthawks will resume on December 2 at the Jackson Victors. Tip off is at 7p.m.
