Ceairra Kirby drives her way around a Lady Eagle during the game at Knox County Friday, Feb. 12. Photograph by Marlana Smith
By David Sharp
Knox County got three Brianna Miller home run balls in the first quarter of their Feb. 12 non-conference girls game with seventh-ranked North Shelby. The Lady Eagles (9-9) limited their guests to 15 second-half points defensively, taking a 46-38 win.
North Shelby (14-5) had beaten Knox County by six points in two previous meetings. Knox County grabbed a 13-8 lead after the opening period.
The Lady Raiders roared back in the second quarter, outscoring Knox County by a 15-12 margin, pulling within a 25-23 halftime deficit.
Knox County third-quarter defense was key to the victory. The Lady Eagles reeled off a 10-5 run, triggering the upset alert at a 35-28 Knox County edge entering the fourth quarter.
Natalie Thrasher shook loose and sank two Raider three balls in the fourth quarter. Riley Strange scored eight of Knox County’s 11 fourth quarter points preserving the 46-38 win.
Strange scored a game-high 26 points. Brianna Miller was in double figures with 11 points. Alyssa Peavler and Kylee Woods scored four points each. Kinsley Johnson returned to the KCHS line up adding one point.
Caroline Linberger led North Shelby with 13 points. Ava Williams faced down Knox County’s formidable front line for 11. Lalaine Thrasher put in four points.
Natalie Thrasher scored six points. Lilly Cook and Ceairra Kirby added two each.
