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By C.Y. Peters

Star Correspondent

The Unaka Rangers and Lady Rangers delivered commanding performances in their second matchups of the season, earning decisive victories over the Cedar View Seahawks. The Lady Rangers cruised to a 63-25 win behind Michelle Shields’ remarkable 35-point performance, while the boys’ team dismantled Cedar View 74-19, led by sophomore standout John Hardin.

Lady Rangers Shine in Defensive Showcase

The Lady Rangers overwhelmed the Seahawks with relentless defense, forcing 20 turnovers and converting them into fast-break points. Shields led all scorers with 35 points, including four three-pointers. Unaka held Cedar View to 12 first-half points, building a 27-12 lead at the break.

Ari Sutherland and Kallie Shepard each contributed two three-pointers, while Keyona Hague and Lauren Lund added seven points apiece. Cedar View’s Bella Hitt led her team with seven points, but the Seahawks struggled against Unaka’s suffocating defense and balanced offense.

Hardin’s Heroics Propel Rangers to Victory

John Hardin delivered a dominant performance, scoring 28 points, grabbing seven rebounds, and blocking five shots—all in the first half. Unaka raced to a 45-10 halftime lead, using zone pressure and full-court press to stifle Cedar View.

Mason Wilson dazzled with three consecutive three-pointers, while Rylan Crabtree and Peyton Guess added to the three-point barrage. Unaka shot 28-of-54 from the field, showcasing their offensive depth.

Jeremiah Walker led Cedar View with seven points, but the Seahawks were unable to counter Unaka’s relentless attack.

Coach’s Praise and Momentum Ahead

Unaka coaches Kenneth Chambers and Aaron Dugger commended their teams for their energy and execution. Both squads will look to extend their winning streaks Tuesday night against Johnson County.

Boys
Unaka: 23 22 17 12 — 74
Cedar View: 5 5 1 2 — 19

Scoring
Unaka: Hardin 28, Wilson 9, Crabtree 9, Walsh 8, Lambert 4, Good 4, Guess 6, Deyton 6.
Cedar View: Strickland 3, Wallace 7, McCannell 2, McConnell 3, Derrick 1, Herndon 2.

Girls
Unaka: 11 16 22 14 — 63
Cedar View: 4 8 11 2 — 25

Scoring
Unaka: Lund 7, Douglas 2, Shields 35, Sutherland 6, Dugger 2, Shepard 6, Hague 7.
Cedar View: Jones 4, Ryans 2, Hitt 7, Strickland 2, Adams 2, Lynch 4, McClellon 1, K. Lynch 5.