Lady Huskies honor seniors in loss to Sandy Valley

Harrison Central recognized seniors Kara Blackburn and Zoe Whipkey before the Lady Huskies’ game against Sandy Valley, presenting them with flowers and gifts from the coaching staff, delivered by their teammates.

The senior-night ceremony was the highlight of the evening as the Lady Huskies fell 46-31 to the visiting Lady Cardinals.

Prior to the game, head coach Chace Smith praised the seniors for their impact on the program.

“We are incredibly thankful for our two seniors Kara and Zoe,” Smith said. “Each of the girls have been in our program from the start and have added a tremendous amount of toughness, grit and leadership over their time with us. Their dedication and work ethic have been an example on the court and in the classroom. They have been an integral part of our success over the years and are genuinely going to miss their contributions.”

Harrison Central’s junior varsity opened the night with a 20-12 win. Whipkey led the Huskies with 6 points, while Ella Smith and Shayla Nameth scored 4 points each. Bailey Smith and Averee Hyde added 3 points apiece. Whipkey, Ella Smith, Bailey Smith and Hyde also recorded bonus field goals.

In the varsity game, Harrison Central jumped out to an 11-9 lead after the first quarter. Sandy Valley responded in the second period, using 3-point shooting to take a 22-16 halftime lead.

The Huskies stayed within striking distance through three quarters and trailed 33-27 heading into the fourth. Sandy Valley pulled away in the final period with a 13-point surge while Harrison managed four points down the stretch.

Emily Cope led Harrison Central with 9 points, followed by Bailey Smith with 8. Nameth, Ella Smith and Mikkayla Pelegreen scored 3 points each. Blackburn and Ava Conley added 2 points apiece, and Whipkey scored 1.