Knott Defeats Hazard 67-51, Headed to Regional Semi-Finals

Keara Mullins pumps in 28 to lead the Lady Patriots.

Jackson, Kentucky, February 27, 2019 – Brendon D. Miller, Bluegrass Sports Nation

Champions know what it takes to win. Two-time defending 14th Region Champs, Knott Central came to Jackson and got back to winning with a 67-51 win over 54th District Champ Hazard to punch their ticket to Saturday’s Semi-Finals.

KABC 14th Region Player of the Year and Eastern Kentucky University signee, Jada Higgins, opened the game with an aggressive eight points in the first quarter. Higgins, coupled with five from Keara Mullins, paced the Lady Patriots to a 16-7 lead at the end of the period.

Hazard fought back in the 2nd quarter behind six a piece from Hayley Caudill, Desiree Sturgill, and Joanna Hagans. At the half, the Lady Patriots were still on top, 28-25.

Knott extended their lead in the 3rd Quarter behind seven more by Mullins, six from Madison Ashley, and five from Courtney Hayes. Hazard stayed within striking distance with four a piece from Caudill and Sturgill. Headed to the 4th, Knott led 46-39.

Knott closed out the game outscoring the Lady Dawgs 21-12 in the 4th. The Lady Patriots went eight of 11 from the line in the period.

Scoring Summary:

KNOTT: Team – 1st Quarter 16; 2nd Quarter 12; 3rd Quarter 18; 4th Quarter 21; Total – 67. Individual – Keara Mullins 28; Jada Higgins 15; Madison Ashley 10; Courtney Hayes 5; Emily Williams 3; Presley Fletcher 3; Natalie Slone 2; and Brooke Mason 1.

HAZARD: Team – 1st Quarter 7; 2nd Quarter 18; 3rd Quarter 14; 4th Quarter 12; Total – 51. Individual – Desiree Sturgill 18; Hayley Caudill 14; Joanna Hagans 8; Libby Danner 7; Annie Harris 2; and Shelbi Ritchie 2.

The Lady Patriots will play Powell County in the Regional Semis on Saturday at Noon.