Highlands varsity boys basketball team traveled to Franklin on Dec. 27 and took on the Panthers but lost in the final minutes, 65-63.
Highlands Dillon Schmitt sets up on defense against former Highlander Griffin Green.
“I thought we played very well throughout the game,” said Highlands Coach Brett Lamb. “We had some great runs on offense and our man to man defense was great. We were outsized at most positions, but we used pressure defense and scrappy play to give ourselves a chance to win the game.”
Highlands Connor Briggs working for the rebound against Franklin.
Highlands Reid Carrier was on fire scoring 42 points helping keep the Highlanders neck and neck with the Panthers until the final minutes.
“He [Carrier] played great and his teammates did a great job recognizing he was hot and got him open with screens and got him the ball,” said Lamb. “A total team effort.”
Highland Reid Carrier driving to the hoop and putting two on the board against Franklin.
He added Highlands took a hit to morale after the loss but they’re looking on the bright side.
“Our team took the loss tough but will use it to build on for the rest of our games,” said Lamb. “We played at a high level and have to find a way to have that same intensity each game.”
Highlands Bill Miller working to shut down options for Franklin to move the ball inside.
Despite the loss, Lamb said his players gave it their all.
“I am extremely proud of our guys of how they played and grew up as a team with this game,” he said. “We gave ourselves a chance to win and will build on the positive parts of this game for the future.”
Highlands Ethan Tate snags the rebound.
Highlands next plays at home on Jan. 7 (today) against Nantahala. Varsity games begin at 6:15 p.m. Junior varsity boys play Summit Charter School at home beginning at 5 p.m. also on Jan. 7 (today).
Highlands Gig Chalker keeps the ball moving against Franklin at home.
Highlands Lane Tingen gets set to make his move at home against Franklin.
Highlands Brent Sleight doing everything he can to stop Franklin’s offense.
Article and photos by Brian O’Shea
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