Hayesville Sweeps Murphy in Conference Clash, Honors Coaching Legend

(Photo by Kynnly McClure) Jackson Sellers has become an increasingly vital part of Hayesville's play.

Tuesday night was a memorable one in Hayesville as the Yellow Jackets hosted the Murphy Bulldogs in a pair of key Smoky Mountain Conference basketball matchups. The evening not only featured thrilling varsity action but also a special moment honoring a legendary coach in Hayesville history.

The girls' game set the tone for the night, with the Lady Yellow Jackets putting together a dominant performance to take down the Lady Bulldogs 49-35. Hayesville jumped out to a 13-7 lead in the first quarter and continued to control the game, leading 26-15 at halftime. A strong third quarter extended their advantage to 38-22, and the Lady Jackets closed out the game with solid defense and key baskets down the stretch.

Mallory Peck was the driving force behind the win, pouring in a game-high 16 points. Ava Shook added 9, and Jasmine Brooks chipped in 8 to round out Hayesville’s top scorers. The victory keeps the Lady Jackets in the thick of the Smoky Mountain Conference race as the regular season nears its conclusion.

Between games, Hayesville High School honored legendary coach Darryl McClure, who led the Lady Yellow Jackets to six consecutive state championships in the late 1980s and early 1990s. In a heartfelt ceremony, it was announced that the school’s home gym will now bear his name, officially becoming the Darryl K. McClure Gymnasium. The tribute was met with a standing ovation from a packed crowd, celebrating the lasting impact McClure has had on Hayesville athletics.

The boys' game delivered high-intensity action as the Yellow Jackets and Bulldogs battled in a back-and-forth contest. Murphy led 13-11 after the first quarter and extended their lead to 27-22 at the half. However, Hayesville fought back in the third quarter, edging ahead 41-40 heading into the final frame.

In the closing moments, the Yellow Jackets sealed the 58-52 victory with clutch free throws, sending the home crowd into a frenzy. Brady Reynolds led the offensive charge with 21 points, while Slade Crouch added 15. Cooper Matheson contributed 5 points in the hard-fought win.

Both Hayesville teams will be back in action at home on Thursday, Feb. 13, against Robbinsville in matchups with major implications for the final Smoky Mountain Conference standings. Adding to the significance of the evening, Hayesville will honor its senior players between the varsity games.

With momentum on their side, the Yellow Jackets will look to build on their success as they approach the postseason.