Unaka Rangers dominate Happy Valley Warriors in Boys and Girls Matchups
Published 10:39 am Tuesday, February 11, 2025
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Aubree Whitehead (21) looks for an open teammate.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Lady Warriors’ Cayden Anderson (22) drives to the basket while being guarded by Brooklyn Campbell (13) of the Rangers.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Rylan Crabtree (15) shoots a three-pointer for the Rangers.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Lady Warriors’ Cayden Anderson (22) drives to the basket for a layup.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Unaka’s T.J. Good (2) drives the baseline.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent John Hardin goes up strong for two of his 20 points to lead the Rangers.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent Unaka’s Rylan Crabtree (15) shoots a deep three in front of the Warrior bench.
Mike Hynes/Star Correspondent The Rangers defend the Warriors' inbound pass.
|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
By C.Y. Peters
The Unaka Rangers delivered a commanding performance against the Happy Valley Warriors, securing victories in both the girls’ and boys’ games.
Lady Rangers Triumph Despite Early Setback
The Lady Rangers faced adversity early on when junior standout Michelle Shields went down in the first minute of play. However, freshman Brooklyn Campbell stepped up in a big way, leading the charge with 17 points and tenacious defense. Unaka’s depth proved crucial, with seven players contributing to the scoreboard in a 47-25 victory over the Lady Warriors.
Emma Douglas reached double figures with 10 points, while Kali Sheppard added six. Unaka established control early, leading 10-4 after the first quarter and extending the advantage to 23-11 at halftime. They continued their dominance in the second half, outscoring Happy Valley 24-14 to seal the win.
For Happy Valley, Caden Anderson led with seven points, while Ashlynn Sommers and Josephine Zeoli each added five.
Rangers Overpower Warriors in High-Scoring Battle
The Unaka boys wasted no time setting the tone, exploding for 29 points in the opening quarter. John Hardin was unstoppable early, scoring 14 points in the first quarter alone while pulling down 11 rebounds. He finished with 20 points, sharing top-scoring honors with Rylann Crabtree, who buried six three-pointers in the contest. The Rangers never looked back, cruising to an 82-60 victory.
Mason Wilson’s quick playmaking created numerous opportunities, particularly opening up Hardin inside the zone. Junior Austin Lambert contributed all-around with several assists, key rebounds, and 10 points. Unaka’s depth was on full display as 10 different players scored, with Jackson Deyton and Antonio Mireles also making notable contributions.
Happy Valley’s Artee Bahn fought valiantly, scoring 22 points, while Austin Nickels added 10. However, the Rangers’ relentless pace proved too much as they extended their lead to 63-43 after three quarters and closed out the game in dominant fashion.
With both teams firing on all cylinders, the Rangers showcased their depth and firepower, marking a strong statement win over their county rivals.
Boys
Unaka: John Hardin 20, Mason Wilson 7, Rylann Crabtree 20, Austin Lambert 10, Aiden Walsh 6, T.J. Good 4, Peyton Guess 3, Jackson Deyton 5, Collin Fuel 2, Antonio Mireles 5.
Happy Valley: Austin Stines 5, Colby Cash 2, Ron Paul Parker 2, Austin Nickels 10, Artee Bahn 22, Zack Rose 3, Lane Parker 5, Dorrian Young 4, Grady Goulds 6.
Score by quarters:
Unaka 29 11 23 19 – 82
Happy Valley 9 18 16 17 – 60
Girls
Unaka 10 13 16 8 – 47
Happy Valley 4 7 9 5 – 25
Unaka: Emma Douglas 10, Ari Sutherland 4, Brooklyn Campbell 17, Olivia Shepard 2, Katlyn Dugger 4, Kalli Sheppard 6, Keyona Hague 4.
Happy Valley: Bailee Jarrett 4, Alex Moore 4, Cayden Anderson 7, Ashlynn Sommers 5, Josephine Zeoli 5.
