Nantahala – The Hawks celebrated homecoming Friday night, but could not come up with a win for either team. This did not damper the celebration, however, as the crowd was excited to see the homecoming court and their teams play.
In the first game of the night, the Lady Hawks lost to the Highlanders 53-18.
Highlands took the early lead by making shots in the paint. They continued making tough shots in the paint and, after a string of fast breaks, took a 34-5 lead to halftime.
In the second half, Delaney McLean drained a 3-pointer to get the first points of the half. The Highlanders continued their string of offense to get the win. Nantahala fought to the end, but could not come up with the offense to combat Highlands.
The Lady Hawks’ next game is at home Friday, when they will host Hiwassee Dam at 6 p.m.
On the boys side, they lost a close game to the Highlanders 75-64. Nantahala got out to a strong start making tough shots and took a 17-14 lead after the first period. Highlands took the lead in the second period, with the Hawks close behind.
In a back-and-forth second half, Nantahala trailed by one point, then took the lead after Cole McCoy made two free throws. Highlands regained the lead and ended the third period up by one point.
There were multiple lead changes in the fourth quarter. With five minutes left, the Hawks got out to a seven-point lead, but the Highlanders were able to close the gap after Nantahala got into foul trouble. Highlanders capitalized on that, which led them to getting the win.
The boys varsity team will also take on Hiwassee Dam on Friday, with tipoff following the conclusion of the girls game.