The Highlands boys varsity basketball team hosted Towns County for the season opener and lost 37-22 on Nov. 19.
Highlands James Earp launches to grab a rebound against Towns County.
It was Highlands Coach Kaitlin Bishop’s first time at the helm of the boys varsity basketball team and said for the first game she was pleased with their defensive performance.
Highlands Jeffrey Olvera calls a play and gets ready to set things in motion.
“We held them to 12 points in the first half, that’s huge,” said Bishop. “And then held them to 37 for the whole game after they had scored 67 in their game earlier in the week, so I felt pretty good about that.”
Highlands Lawson Shuler drives to the inside and puts 2 on the board.
Bishop added that they struggled putting points on the board.
“TC played a really good 1-3-1 half court zone that was very effective for them,” said Bishop. “We didn’t do well at attacking the basket and the gaps, which made us struggle offensively. And we missed quite a few shots in the paint that we have to knock down any game.”
Highlands Nathan Keener picks off a TC pass.
Following the loss to TC, Highlands travelled to Rosman and won 44-38 on Nov. 30. Bishop said earning her first win as head coach was emotional.
Highlands Harrison Gates snags a rebound against TC.
“To get that first win, honestly, just has me feeling humble and grateful,” said Bishop. “It’s a rare opportunity that I never saw coming, but it has been nothing but rewarding for me since it started. The boys have really accepted me and took on this journey with me in the best way. The team gets all the credit, they do all the work. I’m just there to help keep them going in the right direction. This win was huge, and I really think it was a big confidence booster that we all needed.”
Highlands Kason Mitchell shutting down any opening to the hoop.
Bishop said as a new coach, there are a lot of adjustments happening for the boys and for herself, but they’re all pushing each day to get better.
Highlands JD Head scans TC’s defense bringing the ball down the court.
Highlands Kaden Mitchell keeps the ball moving around the perimeter against TC.
“We have a lot of potential and a lot of ability to do some good things this year,” she said. “I am excited to watch this group grow and see what all they can accomplish as the year continues.”
Highlands James Earp holds his ground going for a rebound.
Highlands Nathan Keener slices through TC’s defense to the basket.
Highlands Harrison Gates looks to send the ball back under the hoop after grabbing a rebound.
Highlands Jeffrey Olvera helps up teammate Kason Mitchell who goes to the free throw line.
Highlands Lawson Shuler works for a rebound against TC.
Highlands Kason Mitchell on a fast break against TC.
Article and Photos by Brian O’Shea
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