2024 Basketball Preview

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2024 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

Wednesday, November 20, 2024

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

Fighting Cocks bring ‘attacking mindset’ into this season JAKE NICHOLS Sports Editor

NEWPORT — Since his promotion to head coach in 2020, Casey Ragan’s Cocke County basketball teams have seen consistent improvement.

But he will be the first to admit that last season — 11-18 overall with an unexpected loss to Seymour in the District 3-AAA Tournament play-in game — did not go as expected.

“It was disappointing,” Ragan said ahead of this season. “I felt like we underachieved, and I mentioned it again on our first day of practice. That’s the last time I’m going to mention it, but we know as a group that we had an underachieving season for our standard, which is where it should be.

“I think the guys are hungry, they’ve responded well, and I think them seeing the girls make a run last year made them think about the fact that we were in so many games last year.”

Still, for the Fighting Cocks to make good on that hope, Ragan said some things had to change.

“I think they see the potential is there, but our habits had to change,” he said. “We’ve taken a more attacking mindset in the weight room, in conditioning, and in drills. Probably the most competitive I’ve seen in years in practices so far.

“They are getting after each other, and the good thing is that we have a pretty talented and deep roster. Nobody can get complacent.”

Indeed, between experienced veterans and younger players who saw time last year, that roster is quite possibly the deepest and most experienced that Ragan has had.

A whopping 13 players lead the varsity team as juniors and seniors, and this season, CCHS will look to use that experience to move further than they did last year.

They are looking to win their first region game since 2008, which is when Ragan was in high school.

To do that they will look to Kyler Hayes, Ethan Fine and Oren Hazelwood, who spearhead the senior class with Hayes and Fine earning All-District honors last year.

Hayes also scored his 1,000th point last November, and he brings the most experience of any on this veteran-heavy team.

It seems like forever ago that he came in as a freshman,” said Ragan. “Two or three weeks in, he took over that starting spot and hasn’t looked back. He’s hungry

PHOTO BY JAKE NICHOLS

The 2024-25 Cocke County Fighting Cocks. Front row, left to right: Donovan Campos, Spencer Moore, Kason Stewart, Oren Hazelwood, Eli Roberts. Second row: Will Sutton, Raeshon Palmer, Logan Bowlin, Devin Caldwell, Jerome Cofield. Third row: Ayden Burke, Maddux Carter, Brady Calfee, Zach Williams, Tucker Hembree.

Fourth row: Ethan Fine, Waylon Fox, Parker Ford, Maddox Holt, Kyler Hayes, Jackson Williams.

PHOTO BY JAKE NICHOLS

Casey Eagan leads Cocke County’s boys basketball program in PHOTO BY JAKE NICHOLS his fifth season at the helm. CCHS last won a region tournament Returning All-District selection Kyler Hayes will be a focal point for the CCHS on both ends this game in 2008, and Ragan is looking to bring his team back to that point this season with a bevy of experienced players. year, as his height, wingspan and vertical leap make him tough to defend.

to get this team where we think we can go.”

As far as his skillset, Hayes has always been a solid scorer and rebounder, anchoring the Big Red in the post.

But Ragan noted that he wants to see him take the next step, which involves understanding and anticipating his defensive setup more, as well as showcasing leadership this year.

“He’s seen where to be on the defensive side, just hasn’t gotten there in time before,” said Ragan.

“But he’s been around, and these guys know that.

They’ll have questions and will look to him. So whether he’s ready for it or not, he’s been thrust into that role.”

Fine, meanwhile, has emerged as a consistent shooting threat over the last two seasons.

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Now, though, he has a chance to utilize his tall body to score in multiple ways on the floor.

“He’s got a lot of respect about how well he shoots from outside,” said Ragan.

“But he also has size and length where he can get to the rim and be explosive.

“Then defensively he’s a matchup problem, can guard almost one through five. When Ethan wants to be, he can be one of the best players on the floor.”

Hazelwood, nicknamed “Ol’ Steady” by Ragan as he spoke, will run the point guard position when he comes back from a lingering hamstring injury.

But given the depth and his improved shooting, Hazelwood can also slide over to the 2 if needed.

He has also been a solid off-ball defender, but Ragan said he needs to be better on-ball.

For Jerome Cofield, the opposite is true. And offensively, he can create too, with Ragan calling him a shifty “spark plug” who will rotate with Hazelwood and junior Maddux Carter for time at point guard.

Brady Calfee is the team’s “do-it-all guy,” in Ragan’s words, willing to dive on the floor for loose balls, while fellow senior Tucker Hembree could be a factor at shooting guard or small forward given his improved shooting.

In the junior class, Will Sutton brings back a strong year of experience as a sophomore, filling multiple roles for the Big Red. “We asked him to do an awful lot as a sophomore,”

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said Ragan. “He had nights where he was fantastic and nights where he struggled. So his biggest challenge going into this year was to be consistent every day. When he does that, he’s capable of being one of the best on the floor, if not the conference.”

Maddox Holt returns with an impressive size and makeup that will help in the paint, as well as an improve shooting stroke that can make him a threat on the wing.

Eli Roberts brings a strong work ethic and is “capable of scoring from anywhere” according to Ragan, while Carter offers a unique quickness that is valuable on both ends of the floor.

He will be part of a versatile defense this season, with Ragan noting that he and his staff — Craig Roberts, Darrell Lane and the new addition of Brett Kickliter — will likely tinker with

several different defensive options given their depth.

The same could be true offensively, as CCHS has several players who can play above the rim.

Those options will be vital for a team that will be missing one of its most explosive players, as senior Raeshon Palmer is out for the year with a torn ACL he suffered during football season.

But he will remain on the bench this season in a student-assistant role, helping CCHS in a different way this year.

The junior class continues with Jackson Williams and Waylon McGaha, who complement each other’s styles given their height.

Williams plays more on the inside, serving as a rim protector and a “bruiser” in Ragan’s words, while Waylon McGaha will look to put his strong work ethic to use more on the perimeter.

Finally, Devin Caldwell is what Ragan called a “rat on acid” in the way he flies around, while Spencer Moore Jr. is a “matchup nightmare” with his size, able to defend one through five.

In total, Ragan indeed has a bevy of options from which to choose.

“We talked on day one about our first five, and we told them the first day it’s wide open,” he said. “We’ll find out, but I think we could play 1 through 12 and not have a problem with it.“ And if that depth works in the way Ragan hopes, CCHS will make another push in region play.

“Hopefully we get there this year,” he said. “We talk about it, that whatever we do, it’s done to help us win basketball games.

“I’m excited for this year.

I think we’ll fly around and have a lot of fun.”

Oren Hazelwood will lead the Fighting Cocks as their senior point guard this season. He is known for his steadiness and calm approach on the floor.

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2024 BASKEBALL PREVIEW

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Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | B3

Lady Red ‘not satisfied’ after historic run last season JAKE NICHOLS Sports Editor

NEWPORT — Setting a new level of expectation can be hard for any basketball program, especially with a first-year head coach.

But the season after that, those raised expectations create more pressure to perform.

Boddie Bible and his Cocke County Lady Red will encounter that plenty this season, coming off their first state tournament appearance since 1988 and first Final Four run since 1957.

The former assistant coach took the Lady Red to Murfreesboro by way of a program-best 29-9 record, including a 12-game win streak, as they stormed back to beat Heritage before losing to Dyersburg in the state semifinals.

Along the way, they notched plenty of program-altering wins, including a transformative experience at the Andrew Johnson Bank Ladies’ Classic in Greeneville.

That run proved to Bible’s team that they could beat anyone they faced, pushing them toward a hardened confidence going into the back half of the year.

But Bible and assistants Rick Sinard and Katie Jo Knight have been quick to remind players that, with a schedule that includes multiple high-profile tournaments, CCHS will not be overlooked at all this time.

That will be relevant in a big district game like Northview, but it will also be top-of-mind against teams like Daniel Boone, Farragut and Oak Ridge.

“Last year, especially after Christmas, we knew we weren’t sneaking up on anybody, and that’s

The 2024-25 Cocke County Lady Red. First row from left to right: Amelia Ellison, Abby Niethammer, Carsie Ellison, Chloe Niethammer. Second row: Javin Campbell, Loretta Kickliter, Blakelyn Clevenger, Brookelyn Clevenger. Third row: Georgia Knight, Shakyra Reed, Karmine Carmichael, Ellie Proffitt, Ava Wheeler.

especially true this year,” Bible said. “Anytime you play a program that was in Murfreesboro the previous year, you’re thinking that could be a big win for your program. We want to do our best to make sure that doesn’t happen. We’ll play as hard as we can every night.”

But as they work to achieve those goals this season, the Lady Red will be playing with heavy hearts after the loss of teammate Hayden Carter.

The rising sophomore was set to contend for

the starting point guard spot this season after the departure of Maryville College freshman Halle Kitchen.

But Carter’s death on July 30 sent shockwaves through the community, as both basketball programs have grappled with her loss.

“She’s always on their minds,” Bible said. “Her locker is the first one when you go in, and she’s a big part of us. Each day will be different in however we need to handle that, but we will certainly

keep her with us. And I’ll be there to support our girls.“ In their Big Red Madness entrance on Nov. 19, the Lady Red honored Carter by carrying out her jersey.

This winter, CCHS will look to utilize that closeness on the floor as much as they have grown together off it.

“They experienced something you don’t ever dream of experiencing, and they came together as a family,” Bible said. “They have really come together

through this, and they’ll play hard to make her proud.”

Part of that includes filling in the gap at point, where junior Javin Campbell will slide into the role this season.

“She’s our most improved player,” Bible said plainly. “She wants to be on the floor, and she can take care of the ball and get us into our offense.”

Bible communicated with Kitchen on every possession last year, and he said people can expect the

same with Campbell.

“Last year it felt like every other word I said was ‘Halle,’ and it will be the same with Javin this year,” he said. “I’ve coached her off and on since she’s been seven years old, so I know what makes her click.

“She’s the leader of our team when she’s running point. I look for her to really play well in that role.”

Speaking of roles, this year’s seniors include Abby See CCHS, B6

Karmine Carmichael returns for CCHS after becoming the first freshman in school history to earn All-State honors. She was also the District 3-3A Player of the Year, playing a heavy role in Cocke County’s state run.

In his first season as head coach, Boddie Bible led the Cocke County Lady Red to their first state tournament appearance since 1988. They are looking for another trip to Murfreesboro this season but will face plenty of tough opponents on that journey.

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Wednesday, November 20, 2024

2024 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

Cody ready to lead new-look Eagles in first season as head coach JAKE NICHOLS Sports Editor

COSBY — In early November, Kurry Cody walked to the middle of the Cosby High School gym floor, sat down in a chair, and posed for a preseason photo as the Eagles’ newest head coach.

He roamed this floor as a toddler, played here from 2013 to 2017, and now, he looked around the venue, smiled, and addressed the imminence of his first season at the helm for his alma mater.

“It’s kind of snuck up on me, because we’ve been in the weight room since August,” Cody said.

“Now that we’re actually practicing, it feels more real.”

Aside from Cody’s presence on the floor in practice, one glance around the Cosby locker room will reveal that change as well.

There is a lot of newness: a brown leather love seat in the corner, blue lights on the wall, nameplates above each locker hook, and signs reflecting the Eagles’ new player-picked principles — togetherness, accountability, purpose — mounted on the wall next to the uniforms.

Beyond that, a whiteboard on the door reflects the number of days until the first game (one), and a small Tennessee-esque sign — I will give my ALL for Cosby today! — hangs near the District 2-A Tournament championship plaque that was earned this past season.

Nearby, a few team photos hang along the wall in the entryway, and there is a picture for each Cosby player who has gone on to play at the college level.

Cody’s photo is the most recent, as he won a National Christian College Athletic Association (NCCAA) DII national title at Johnson University in 2021 before returning to Cosby to coach and teach.

The locker room ideas and playing experience have aided Cody in preparing for this moment, and so have his three years as an assistant coach — one under Cody Lowe with the girls program and the past two under former coach Brian Stewart.

“But,” Cody admitted, “I never thought it would happen this early.”

Still, in gearing up for his first season, Cody knows what people expect from a program with nine state tournament appearances.

And he feels ready to deliver another one.

“What I’ve established so far is what I think this community would like to see,” he said. “People love basketball here,

The 2024-25 Cosby Eagles. Front row left to right: Drake Woodson, Draiden Sneed, Cruz Coggins, Devonte Wigfall, Cody Strange, Easton Whitlock. Second row: Head coach Kurry Cody, Christian Walsh, Haiden McMahan, Cooper Davis, Eli Gilliam, Cornelius Carr, Ezra Spurgeon, assistant Travis Sane. Not pictured: assistant coach Eric Coggins, statistician/assistant coach Hayden Green.

were all there, they ran a motion offense that was really good. I definitely took that out of his playbook.”

To make this click the way Cody wants, Cosby will need a bevy of different playmakers.

They lost quite a bit in the past senior class, especially in the likes of sharpshooter Peyton Raines, big man Mack Holt and do-it-all guy Cyler Davis.

But they also return plenty of experience, the driving force of which will be junior point guard Cruz Coggins.

While he is now entering his third year as a starter, Coggins burst onto the scene as a freshman after Green’s life-altering ATV injury.

He grew into an All-Region selection that year, then became the District 2-A Player of the Year as a sophomore.

Kurry Cody enters his first year as head coach of the Cosby boys basketball team. Cody called the job “a dream come true” when So with all of that he was hired, as he will be leading a program he played for from 2013 to 2017. already done, what does Coggins’ third year in the That’s the reason behind program look like? way Cosby performed in all this.”

“I think the next step for that last season.

That has been a clear him is getting to the state “The kids seem to message from his first understand it,” Cody said. tournament,” Cody said. day, with Cody and “All-District last year, and “We’ve got a long way to his assistants — Travis I think All-Region is on go, but I definitely want Sane, former Cosby to be a defensive-minded the table this year too. But great Eric Coggins and individual accomplishteam. Then offensively I ments aside, if you ask former standout Hayden really want to get out in Green — emphasizing a transition, shoot the three, him, I think he wants to defense-centered message and get as many transition get to a state tournament.”

Coggins has acted that that hinges on pressure buckets as we can.” way so far, filling more of and strong transition play.

That offense will take a leadership role than he “I’m still preaching the another page out of Tenhas the past two years. same thing I preached this nessee’s book, as Cody plans to run the same That style has been necsummer: improve halfcourt defense,” Cody said. kind of motion plays that essary since Cosby has “To beat a good team, you Rick Barnes has run with only one senior — albeit a valuable one in the versathe Vols. have to man up and stop Rising junior Christian Walsh will look to make an impact down the guy in front of you tile Devonte Wigfall, who “I was really bought in low this year, having put on plenty of muscle this off-season to and box out and finish helped lead the Eagles’ when he got hired,” said aid his 6-foot-4 frame. football team to their first Cody, a longtime UT with a rebound.” fan. “The year that Grant ever region title this season.

He also noted he wants tournament appearances Williams, Jordan Bone, and I want to do everyto pursue a full-court thing I can to bring state See CODY, B7 back to Cosby basketball. pressure look given the and Admiral Schofield

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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024 | B5

Lady Eagles taking ‘hunger’ into 2024-25 season JAKE NICHOLS Sports Editor

COSBY — In his seven years leading the Cosby Lady Eagles, Cody Lowe has revitalized the program he took over in 2017.

Five straight district tournament titles, five region semifinal appearances, one sectional appearance and a 63-game district win streak have all been part of Lowe’s tenure.

The program also reached 19 wins or more in each of his first four seasons, the best one coming in 2019 — a 27-6 record overall, 14-0 in district play, and a mere five-point loss from just the fourth state tournament appearance in school history.

Lately, though, things have not looked quite as bright.

The district win streak skidded to a halt on Feb. 7, 2023, as up-and-coming Washburn defeated Cosby 53-52.

The Lady Pirates took down Cosby again for that year’s district title, then did the same thing this past year to start a streak of their very own — two straight district championships and three straight wins over the Lady Eagles.

No one around the Cosby program has forgotten that this off-season, especially not after an 11-19 record.

“That sticks in people’s craws, especially mine,” Lowe admitted.

“Not saying you take it for granted, but this has given us some hunger.

“Last year didn’t go how we wanted it to. Being here, we’ve got a tradition of excellence, and we’re ready to see the fruits of our labor.”

They are primed to do so with weapons of different ages, making this one of the most versatile and deep teams that Lowe has had at his disposal.

Six freshmen highlight an impressive young group, while five seniors and one junior provide upperclassmen leadership.

They gelled this summer during summer camps across East Tennessee, and now, they form a chemistry that has Lowe ready to hit the floor for the first game Nov. 21 against Cloudland.

“It would be easy for some of these older girls to come in and feel threatened by freshmen,” Lowe said. “But they’re ready to win and don’t care what it takes. It’s going to be really exciting, I think. Really fun.”

At the top of this revamped roster is senior sharpshooter Shylee Shelton, who came back to the team this summer after stepping away last December.

Before that, she was the youngest player in Cosby history to hit the 1,000point mark, doing so in the 2023 season as a sophomore.

Before continuing her career at Johnson University, Shelton has her eye set toward Cosby’s alltime scoring record, as well as the 2,000th point of her career.

But she is also intent on winning, a sentiment shared by fellow seniors Addy Woods, Chloe Hance, Alexis McGaha and Maddy Miller.

“You can really tell they want it,” said freshman Azariah Spurgeon. “It’s their senior year, and they feel like they need this because they’ve gotten robbed of it.”

To find those wins, Lowe and assistant Bethanie Williams will start by utilizing Shelton at her true position of small forward.

In her previous stint,

The 2024-25 Cosby Lady Eagles. Front row left to right: Sophia Summerlin, Azariah Spurgeon, Alexis McGaha, Addy Woods, Matisse Bible, Kinnlea Norwood. Back row left to right: Head coach Cody Lowe, Katey Moore, Zayli Spencer, Allie Ottinger, Maddy Miller, Chloe Hance, Shylee Shelton.

defensively.”

Indeed, Spurgeon went coast-to-coast several times this summer, showcasing exactly the kind of damage she can do — and exactly the kind of basketball Lowe wants to play if he has his druthers in game-planning.

“That’s what we’ve been lacking,” he said. “We have not had somebody to get deflections and turn people over, and that’s the way I like to play.

“In high school we don’t get to recruit, but if I were a college coach, I would find athletic, quick guards and would play extremely fast and press. We’ll get back to more of that this year. That’s the way I like to coach.”

This year, that style will include several defensive options, plenty of pressure, and a quick pace Cosby girls basketball coach Cody Lowe and his Lady Eagles are hungry for more this season, having dropped the last two dis- on both ends — similar trict championships to Washburn after winning five straight titles in Lowe’s tenure. to what Lady Vols Kim Caldwell has begun to implement at Tennessee. comes to Cosby after To do that successfully, averaging 23 points per Cosby will need the kind game for Smoky Mountain Elementary last year. of athleticism offered by Despite wearing cochlear seniors Woods and Hance, implants, she has quickly who have brought their established herself as leadership to the hardwood after starring on the a hard-nosed defender whose ability to press will soccer pitch in the fall.

McGaha will provide make her an essential part depth at shooting guard, of this team.

“I’ve never coached a kid as she continues to work like her,” said Lowe. “The her way back from an ACL tear in the spring of most comparable is Leia her junior year.

Groat. She was probably And Miller will likely the best defender I’ve ever coached, and Azariah has be a corner threat once more this season, as she a lot of that in her. stepped up in the paint “She’s a ballhawk Cosby’s Maddy Miller filled in for Shelton last season after her departure, and Miller will be and a pest on the floor. and on the perimeter after essential again this season for a Lady Eagle team that relied on her perimeter scoring and paint People talk about how Shelton’s departure last presence last year. season. well she can score, but she gets a lot of those See COSBY, B7 “They will really help Shelton played quite a bit Spurgeon, meanwhile, because of what she does spell her in the backat shooting guard, while court,” said Lowe. “(Shelalso handling the ball some since Cosby did not ton) is a true small forward. She can shoot and have a true point guard. rebound, and now we’ve Now, though, the Lady got guards who know Eagles will see freshmen how to find her. It’s really Matisse Bible and Spurgeon take over ball-hanencouraging.” dling duties.

Bible, who joined Cosby That will allow Shelton out of Newport Grammar, to branch out more, as she can dish out passes and did on the camp circuit finish strong on each side this summer. with each hand.

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2024 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024

THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

CCHS From B3 Niethammer, Carsie Ellison and Shakyra Reed.

Niethammer served as a consistent sixth person last year, coming off the bench in crucial moments as a shooting guard and small forward.

“She played a big role for us last year and had an unbelievable state tournament,” said Bible. “She plays hard, and we look for her for senior leadership.

She played a lot of minutes in a lot of games, and man, she competes.”

Fellow senior Carsie Ellison has battled back from a couple of injuries, but Bible noted that she will look to lead the team in multiple ways as an upperclassman.

Rounding out the senior class, Shakyra Reed battled through the loss of her mother last season while establishing herself as a tough presence for CCHS on both ends of the floor.

She has typically occupied the power forward spot, but she may slide over to small forward some this year due to depth issues.

Regardless of where she plays, though, Bible was emphatic about her impact.

“She’s the hardest-playing kid I’ve ever been around,” he said. “She’s our spark plug. Every day at practice I tell her that she could lead these girls.

They feed off her energy.

“She might be the best on-ball defender in the state. I’d hate for her to guard me. She’ll always guard the other team’s best player and make life hard on them.”

In the junior class, shooting guard Blakelyn Clevenger brings back the most experience.

“She was one of our top contributors last year, and I look for her to be one of our leaders,” said Bible.

“She doesn’t panic in tight situations, and we’ll be playing a really young lineup at times. So she’ll have to be there to do that for them.”

Clevenger’s twin sister, Brookelyn Clevenger, has also returned to the team this year, and she will be extremely versatile.

“She can play pretty much 1-4,” Bible said.

“She’s an all-around really good player, really good offensively. We look forward to her production.”

In the sophomore class, Karmine Carmichael and Ellie Proffitt will complement each other in the post this season.

Carmichael had a monster freshman season, becoming the youngest player in school history to earn All-State recognition.

She is also the reigning District 2-3A Player of the Year, as she helped lead CCHS to history after scoring 90 points in her first four games.

Knowing her output and the way teams responded once they caught on, Bible

All-District pick Blakelyn Clevenger comes back as a junior sharpshooter for CCHS, as she provided several key buckets last season.

Shakyra Reed brings her gritty style to the Lady Red for one more season, having become one of the better defenders in the area.

expects Carmichael to have gritty encounters in the post again this season.

“Teams will really make it hard on her this year,” he said. “They will be as physical as they can, and she will have to be the first person down the floor every possession. If she does that, they will never be able to guard her.

“So we’ll be trying to get her a chance to score in transition, and in the halfcourt, she can catch the ball face-up. She’s also an unbelievable defender, which is how she creates a lot of her points. We’re

expecting another big year out of her.”

Proffitt saw more playing time as the year went on last season, and she is primed to take a larger step this year.

“She has improved tremendously since we have started,” Bible said. “She works hard and is very coachable, and she’s the strongest kid we’ve got on the team.

“A great rebounder too, and as much attention as Karmine will draw, Ellie can pick up a lot of points around the basket. She will see a lot of playing

time this year.”

He noted that Proffitt brings a bit more height as compared to Carmichael or Reed, and that she is learning to become more physical.

Another possible post contributor will be Chloe Niethammer, the youngest sister of Abby Niethammer and former CCHS standout Paige Niethammer.

“We have three returning post players, so we’re looking for another to fill some minutes,” Bible said.

“She scores the ball with both hands and reminds

me a lot of Paige when she was a freshman, who was obviously a great player for us. And Chloe has the same skill set.”

Fellow freshman Georgia Knight is coming off an injury as an eighthgrader, but she can knock down mid-range shots in way that most post players cannot typically do.

Bible also noted the work ethic of Amelia Ellison and Loretta Kickliter, and he said that Ava Wheeler could vie for plenty of time too as a member of a strong class.

“She does every drill the

right way,” he said, “and she could push to start on this team. She’s a great shooter, a great competitor. She’s got a chance to really make an immediate impact. We’re looking for a lot of production out of her.”

Overall, Bible is also looking for a lot of production out of his team, namely because of raising the bar last year.

“Our girls are winners,” he summarized.”They’re not satisfied. The last thing we ever want to do is settle, and they aren’t satisfied with last year.“

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2024 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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Cosby From B5 “She’s one of the best shooters we’ve got on the team, and she had some big games last year when we needed them,” said Lowe.

Speaking of offense, Ottinger will be vital down low again this season, as the junior can use her length to her advantage.

“If you could mold a perfect basketball player, that’s who you would build,” he said. “Long and lanky, she can run like a deer. Good defender and rebounder.

“But I would love to see her take the next step on the offensive end. If she can find that next year,

she can take off.”

Then aside from Bible and Spurgeon, four other freshmen round out the Lady Eagles’ newest class.

Zayli Spencer poses a strong presence inside, as Lowe said that she can “very well win the job at the 5 spot.”

“In my opinion she’s in our top 6, 7 or 8 right there,” he said. “She’s an excellent rebounder, and if she can get to where she can finish around the basket, it will be hard to keep her off the floor.”

He offered similar thoughts on Sophia Summerlin — “probably the biggest sleeper,” per Lowe — and added that Katey Moore’s shooting and Kinnlea Norwood’s drive

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024 | B7

have impressed thus far.

In short, Lowe knows things have not gone the way he would have liked the past couple of years — especially considering the high expectations his players have helped to create.

But with the combination of hunger and chemistry he has seen out of this team, expectations are back where they belong.

And at some point, he wants to turn those expectations into even more.

“We want expectations to be high, and we want to make it back to the state tournament,” he said. “I’m not saying that will be this Cosby will be led by senior Shylee Shelton, who rejoined the team this off-season after stepping year, but that’s our goal away last December. She scored 1,000 points as a sophomore and could break Cosby’s all-time every year. Anything shy scoring record this season. is a disappointment.”

Reigning District 2-A Player of the Year Cruz Coggins will lead the Eagles as a third-year starter at point guard. He brings plenty of experience but has also worked on his leadership coming into his junior season.

Sophomore Haiden McMahan offers three-level scoring for the Eagles, as he came onto the scene as a freshman and turned heads in a hurry.

Devonte Wigfall is the sole senior for the Eagles, as he brings the same leadership and athleticism that helped Cosby win its first ever region title in football in the fall.

Cody From B4 “I remember watching Devonte at the elementary tournament when he was at Bridgeport,” said Cody. “I think I was still in college, but I remember thinking, ‘Wherever this kid goes, he will be really special.’

“And he has turned out to be exactly what I thought he would be: a special talent, a special athlete, and he has really matured and grown in his communication.”

Cooper Davis will provide another weapon out of the junior class, as Cody called him a “mismatch problem” since he can post up, shoot from the outside or blow by defenders when necessary.

Christian Walsh will be getting his first full year of varsity minutes as a junior, but at 6-foot-4, he provides a unique and dangerous presence given his size and the muscle he has added this off-season.

Cody Strange rounds out the junior class, with Cody noting his midrange ability and maturity.

Haiden McMahan leads the sophomore class, having established himself as an explosive player who can score at all three levels.

Cody did note that McMahan needs to improve defensively, but that he is excited to see how he develops.

Cornelius Carr brings a similar athleticism as Wigfall, which is fitting since they are brothers. He also boasts a

“tremendous basketball I.Q.,” Cody said, and has rebounded well in the preseason.

Eli Gilliam, Jayden Holt, Brody Stooksbury and Colton Jenkins finish off the sophomore class for the Eagles.

The team also features plenty of freshmen, two of whom will factor in immediately at the varsity level.

Ezra Spurgeon poses another presence in the paint and on the perimeter, having used his size for Smoky Mountain Elementary last year.

Draiden Sneed, a Parrottsville product, will be another weapon given

his strong shooting and sure what it will feel like, his understanding of the but it will be emotional game. for sure.”

The Eagles start We’re Selling Real Estate their season on Thursday, Nov. 21, as they & Booking Auctions Every Day will host Cloudland for Cody’s debut as head Luke Goddard coach.

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Cosby basketball summer photos Before taking the floor this season, the Cosby Eagles and Lady Eagles took part in several scrimmages over the summer. Check out their preparation in these photos from Sports Editor Jake Nichols:

Cosby’s Devonte Wigfall watches his shot during a summer scrimmage at Northview Academy.

Cosby coach Cody Lowe instructs his team during a summer scrimmage prior to the 2024-25 high school basketball season.

Cosby point guard Azariah Spurgeon looks to pass during a scrimmage at Bearden High School.

Cosby’s Addy Woods drives into the lane during a summer scrimmage at Bearden High School.

Cosby point guard Cruz Coggins makes a move on a defender during a scrimmage at Northview Academy.

Cosby’s Sophia Summerlin pushes the ball down the floor during a scrimmage at Bearden High School.

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CCHS summer basketball photos Prior to the start of this season, the Cocke County Fighting Cocks and Lady Red prepared for this year with several different scrimmages across East Tennessee. Check out photos here, courtesy of NPT Sports Editor Jake Nichols.

Cocke County girls basketball coach Boddie Bible instructs his team from the sideline during a summer matchup at Webb School of Knoxville.

Cocke County’s Blake Clevenger pushes the ball down the floor at Webb School of Knoxville.

Cocke County guard Shakyra Reed looks to pass during a scrimmage at Webb School of Cocke County’s Ellie Proffitt goes up for a shot against a defender at Webb School of Knoxville Knoxville. during the summer.

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Cocke County boys basketball coach Casey Ragan instructs his team during a timeout in a scrimmage at Northview.

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2024 BASKETBALL PREVIEW

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ELEMENTARY BASKETBALL PHOTOS

The 2024-25 Smoky Mountain Elementary Bears. Back row (left to right): Nate Webb, Cayson The 2024-25 Smoky Mountain Lady Bears. Left to right: Aaliyah Baker, Jovie Beasley, Mycelia Hall, Braxton Worley, Huell Baker, Sammuel Crampton, Gabriel Tincher. Front row (left to right): Baker, Haven Ramsey, Delilah Depaola. Not pictured: Tynleigh Fine.

Jayden Seymour, Justice Brooks, Titus Spurgeon, Levi Webb, Bryan Worley.

Front row left to right: Olivia Shaver, Jaylyn Southerland, Emma Morse, Tegan Rea, Alyciana The 2024-25 Centerview Falcons. From left to right: Ian Bible, Joseph Perry, Braxtyn Sams, Colton Thompson. Back row: Emma Calfee, Allie Rymer, Kaydence Penton, Josie Shaver, Haidyn Penton, Hurst, Mason Watkins, Nolan Bible. Back row: Zander Proffitt, Chase Harris, Ben Lewis, Ethan HelTenley Blazer. ton, Peyton Phillips, Shane Patterson, Owen Turner.

The 2024-25 Parrottsville Parrotts. Back row left to right: Jamison Tate, Braelyn Talley, Tristan Brown, Gavin Hartsell, John Dillion Ramsey, Hudson Hall. Front: Jase Williams, Jude Ramsey, Daxtin Sneed, Braelyn Bowlin, Abe Kickliter.

The 2024-25 Parrottsville Lady Parrotts. Back row left to right: Molly Kate Peters, Kailynn Ward, Addison Norman, Kinsley Nease, Ella Grace Roberts. Front row: Emma Layman, Emery Presnell, Canyon Ward, Ella Beth Kickliter.

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The 2024-25 Grassy Fork Lady Ravens. Back row left to right: Mylee Messer, Emma Harman, Ripley Groat, Stella Raines, Kathrine Martinez. Back row: Kenzie Ledford, Paislee Clark, Bella Stanton, Audrie Clifton.

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The 2024-25 Grassy Fork Ravens. Back row left to right: Hudson Clark, Benjamin Laws, Riley Leatherwood, Xavier Koutsos.

Middle row: Kooper Shelton, Jackson Young,Tyson Cofield, Waylon Mcgaha, Issac Jenkins, Chris Gore Sterlin Clark, Harrison McGaha. Front row: Kammdyn Buckner, Tucker Faison, and Corbin Hance.

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Wednesday, November 20, 2024 | B11

ELEMENTARY BASKETBALL PHOTOS

The 2024-25 Del Rio Trojans. Back row from left to right: Bentley Jones, Abram Woody, Levi The 2024-25 Del Rio Lady Trojans. Back row from left to right: Scarlett Mullins, Karigen Ellison, Turner. Second row: Rylan Tanner, Caiden Ramsey, Henry Freeman, Leland Dockery, Dillan Ella Woody, Jacey Jones. Front row: assistant coach April Bullington, Abby Douglas, Elizabeth Cooper, Skylar Mullins, Aubree Fine and coach Brooke Fox. Not pictured: Sophie Collins Haney. Front row: coach Danny Shelton, Andrew Ireland, Eljah McGraw, Jorell Sawyer.

The 2024-25 Bridgeport Rockets. Front row left to right: Ryder Miller, Colton Holt, Logan Mantooth, Marcus Paulette, Skylar Ricks, Nolan Gray. Back row: Eli Smith, Jordan Ball, Jace Johnson, Caden Hall, Isaac Hill.

The 2024-25 Bridgeport Lady Rockets. Front row left to right: Madison Gee, Maddy Gray, Taylor Donley, Carleigh Posey, Mia McCarter. Back row: Jesslyn Ashby, Hazel Williams, Lexie Webber, Kennidi Blankenship, Savannah Ball, Zoe Sexton.

Front row L to R: Cam Brannon, Kaiden Farley, Hank Williams, Zaidon Buckner, Caden Gray, The 2024-25 Cosby Elementary Lady Eagles. Front row left to right: Krisily Shepherd, Belinda Kaden Yarbrough. Back row: Zion Guthrie, Rylee Gilliam, Malakhai Blanton, Noah Saul, Brantley Gonzalez, Kobi Stewart, McKynlee Williams. Back row: Samantha Anders, Jazz Grooms, Payton Spann, Kade Norris. Head coach Casey Gilliam, assistant Jeremy Norris.

Southerland, Piper Whaley, Walela Lambert, Zoey Grooms, Lorelei Dennis, Haddlee Williams.

The 2024-25 Northwest Lady Patriots. Front row left to right: Jonazi Hall, June Lloyd, Natalee Bolin. Back row: Ta’Shawna Ray, Kya Williford, Mia Hernandez, McKinley Bolin, Karma Massaros and head coach Trent Mathis.

The 2024-25 Northwest Patriots. Front row left to right: Jae’Sean Stewart, TJ Ray, Colt McAfee, Tyden Spears. Middle: Kayden Mahoney, Mason Bolin, Elijah Jarvis. Back: De’Marcus Stewart, Jace Summerville, Corbyn Pate, Christian Styles. Not pictured: Damian Widdowfield.

The 2024-25 Edgemont Lady Panthers. First row left to right: Gracie Ramsey, Mary Dunn, Carson Reed, Mia Martinez. Back Row left to right: Arianna Herrera, Stevie Thomas, Essence Biggs, Chloe Walker, Kennadie Meyers, Gabby Brown, Kalixx Stewart, Mia Gordan. Not pictured: Abby Owens.

The 2024-25 Edgemont Panthers. Front row left to right: Quinlen Ramsey, Simeon Chambers, Jasper Biggs, Josiah Cofield, Tyson Lackey, Andrew Williams, Aymen Williams. Back row: Zae Gudger, Harlan Bennett, Jackson Moss, Dakota Fine, Austin Williams, Carter Smith, Silas Chambers, Jaxson Naillon, Easton Robinson.

The 2024-25 Newport Grammar Warriors. Front row left to right: Ty Lewis, Spencer Reed, Jeremiah Hall, Eli Sisk, Robie Fish. Back row: Rylan Thornton, Kolby Fine, Rylan Parton, Colton Oury, Cam Lewis, Brody Holloway.

The 2024-25 Newport Grammar Lady Warriors. Front row left to right: McKenna Webb, Harper Graham, Cambree Clevenger Back row: Carlie Chiasson, Bella Burke, Izzy Tomlinson, Jaylee Lane, Brooke Broyles, Bentleigh Morris.

SPORTS

B12 | THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

| W E D N E S D A Y , N O V E M B E R 2 0, 2024

See the article below to check out how elementary basketball teams across the county fared Monday night.

Elementary hoops update for Monday, Nov. 18 Cosby senior Shylee Shelton smiles for a photo alongside her parents, Brian and Trish Shelton, after signing to continue her basketball career with Johnson University on Monday, Nov. 18, 2024. Behind Shelton and her parents are Cosby Athletic Director Levi Cooper, Johnson girls basketball coach Bryon Lawhon and Cosby girls basketball coach Cody Lowe.

Shelton sees work pay off with Johnson signing COSBY — At 4:28 p.m. Monday, Cosby senior Shylee Shelton gave a small smile and leaned in to hug her father, Brian.

10 minutes later, as she signed her National Letter of Intent with Johnson University, her mother Trish offered four words: “Hard work pays off.”

Indeed it does for Shelton, who has been committed to Johnson since October after being offered when she was just a sophomore.

That year, she became the youngest player in Cosby history to score 1,000 career points.

She has her eyes set on more production as a senior, as she is 246 points away from breaking the alltime scoring record held by Becky Flatford.

That should come in due time, as will the wins Shelton and her teammates want to see this season.

On Tuesday, though, she was focused on the completion of a dream she has worked for since her days of winning championships at Grassy Fork Elementary.

“It feels amazing,” she said. “It’s something I’ve always wanted, and now that I’ve got it, I’m just going to work harder and become better.”

“I’m happy for her but not surprised,” added Lady Eagles coach Cody Lowe, who has now seen four of his players move on to play in college. “Terrific player and a terrific work ethic. She’s going to a great program. I’ve known Coach (Bryon) Lawhon for a long time, and she will learn a lot of basketball there. I think she’s got a chance to be part of something special.”

Her recruitment with Johnson technically began her sophomore year, but Shelton made a crucial connection as an eighth-grader when she began playing travel basketball under Tennessee Trotters coach Richard Heifner.

And when Heifner was added to the Johnson staff as an assistant, he maintained the connection that led to Lawhon’s offer.

With Shelton’s skillset, Lawhon said she should be a perfect fit in their system.

“The way we play, we play a fast pace and are averaging almost 90 points per game right now,” he said. “To play at that pace, every one of our players can handle, can shoot, can pass, and she fits that mold.

“She’s a long wing, can handle the ball, and can score in bunches.

Defensively, her length and the way we play our man-to-man defense, it’s more of a team concept and her length will help her there too.”

Conversely, Shelton also likes what she has seen of the Royals’ program, which is at the NAIA level.

“I like the way they teach the game, and they play really fast and hard,” she said. “And they always put God first, and I love that.”

To that end, Lawhon spoke to Shelton’s character, which has been reinforced in her return to Cosby.

But when she walked away from the Lady Eagles last December, that did throw her recruitment into a bit of a flux.

“Obviously it was a huge deal,”

Lawhon said. “There were conversations had. But when (Lowe) took her back, it was like, ‘Okay, it’s water under the bridge for us as well.’ I’ve known him a long time, and if it was enough for her to come in and apologize and he said she was good, it was good enough for me.

“She’s a kid and made a mistake, and she redeemed herself. I think that says a lot about somebody’s character, when they make a mistake and they come back and own that. For me, we talk about our kids’ accountability, and that characteristic will fit with me very well.”

So will Shelton’s toughness, which he said is a calling card of every player he has recruited from Cocke County.

That includes former CCHS standout Camryn Halcomb — currently a guard with the Royals — as well as players like Jordan Self, who went to Cosby and played under Lawhon at Bryan College.

“You get kids from this area, you know they’re tough,” Lawhon said.

“They have been coached and can take coaching. You’re not going to rattle those kids. They come in and they want to work. They don’t expect anything to be given to them, and they’re just lunch pail kids.”

For Shelton, that mindset has been honed on and off the court, as she is one of six kids.

She has also developed the approach through travel ball, as she and her parents went across the See SHELTON, B13

Pate scored 20 points, De’Marcus Stewart added 14, and Kayden Mahoney On Monday night, eleand Jace Summerville mentary basketball teams scored five and two points, across the county took the respectively. floor to begin the fifth week In the girls matchup, of action in the 2024-25 Edgemont won 43-6. Kailslate. ixx Stewart scored 19 points, Here is how everything Chloe Walker added 12, went down, starting with and Essence Biggs, KennaParrottsville’s matchups die Myers and Gabby Brown against Cosby. scored six, four and two The schools split the points, respectively. matchups, as the Lady TaShawna Ray scored four Eagles took the girls game points for the Lady Patriots, 37-26. and Mia Hernandez added Piper Whaley led the way two points. with 14 points, followed by In the games between nine points for Kobi StewCenterview and Grassy art, eight points for Haddlee Fork, the Ravens claimed Williams and three points two wins. apiece for Payton SoutherThe Lady Ravens beat the land and Zoey Grooms.

Lady Falcons 50-29 behind Ella Beth Kickliter led Par- 16 points from Ripley Groat rottsville with 18 points, and 11 from Stella Raines. while Addison Norman put Paislee Clark had nine up eight points of her own. points, Bella Stanton scored Parrottsville won the boys eight and Emma Harmon game 40-21, fueled by 14 accounted for six. points from John Dillon Josie Shaver led CenterRamsey. Tristan Brown view with 15 points, and added nine points, Abe Olivia Shaver and Allie Kickliter scored seven, and Rymer scored five and four, Braelyn Talley and Brayrespectively. lin Bowlin had five points Kaydence Penton scored apiece. three points, and Emma Cam Brannon led Cosby Calfee had two. with six points, Noah Saul On the boys side, Grassy scored five, and Malakhai won 45-26.

Blanton put up four.

Tyson Cofield scored 15 Rylee Gilliam, Zion Guth- points, Waylon McGaha rie and Kade Norris had two added 11, Tucker Faison points each. had 10, and Jackson Young In the Northscored seven with Sterlin west-Edgemont contests, the Clark adding two.

Panthers came away with Ben Lewis scored 16 two wins. points for Centerview, Ethan The Panthers edged the Helton added eight points Lady Patriots 45-41, led by and Zander Proffitt scored 21 points from Dakota Fine two points. and 13 points from Tyson Finally, in the BridgeLackey. port-Smoky matchups, the Austin Williams scored six Rockets won both games. points, Jasper Biggs had four, The Lady Rockets won and Silas Chambers scored 40–16 behind 14 points one point.

See UPDATE, B13 For Northwest, Corbyn JAKE NICHOLS

Sports Editor

PROFFITT’S PONDERING

Ray Proffitt much.”

After surviving the wreck, Ray Proffitt went on to find success n the 1960s, Mike Proflater in life. fitt suited up for the Cocke And oddly enough, that success County football program, just began by trimming trees near his as his three brothers did. house in Newport.

But what you may not know is That was how then-Clemson that they come from athletic lin- coach Jess Neely — a Vandereage in their father, Ray Proffitt. bilt halfback and future AD who The elder Proffitt and his future went on to coach football and brother-in-law, B.H. Teague, baseball at multiple schools — were two of the survivors in the and his assistants found Proffitt Cocke County football truck in the mid-1930s. wreck that occurred on the way Proffitt, like many athletes, to Pennington Gap, Virginia, in used the help of Dr. Hobart 1934.

Ford in his journey to college Two people died as a result — football.

James Susong of head injuries “He knew coaches from everyand Jakie Holt four days later, where,” Mike Proffitt said of having “never regained conscious- Ford. “He was very well-known.” ness,” according to the rememThat day, Ford directed Neely brance pamphlet Proffitt gave me. and his staff to Proffitt, and their “A lot of people that were with recruitment worked. them, or the ones that hadn’t So in the fall of 1937, Ray Profpassed away, would come here fitt left his girlfriend, Cordeand sit and talk at the house,” lia Teague, and went to South Ray Proffitt, center, is the father of Mike Proffitt and his four siblings. He and his journey through college football are Proffitt said. “But they never See PROFFITT, B13 the subject of this week’s “Proffitt’s Pondering.” did talk much about the wreck JAKE NICHOLS

Sports Editor

I

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Proffitt From B12 Carolina to play defensive end under Neely.

At the time, the Tigers donned the same leather helmets as everyone else, and — if pictures serve correctly — they wore brown pants and purple jerseys with orange numbers.

It was not exactly the comfortable, sleek Nike gear shown today, and there was no giant Tiger paw on the side of the headgear, either.

Still, if Proffitt had stayed, perhaps he would have played alongside one of the best Clemson players to ever don the uniform: Banks McFadden.

He was the Tigers’ version of Johnny Majors, playing tailback, quarterback and providing punts and interceptions.

He was also a top scorer for their basketball team — but Proffitt was not there long enough to find out.

“When he went to Clemson, some boys put their girlfriends’ pictures on the wall and asked him to choose which was the prettiest,” said Mike a Proffitt with a chuckle. “He said, ‘Neither one of them are too good-looking.’”

Of course, that comment started a fight between Proffitt and his new teammates.

What the Clemson players didn’t know, however, was that Ray Proffitt was not just a skilled football player.

He was also an experienced boxer.

“And I believe they probably wished they hadn’t started that,” said Mike Proffitt. “They didn’t do enough research on him.”

Proffitt won the fight, but he realized this was not a place he wanted to be.

He transferred to Tennessee Wesleyan in Athens, Tennessee.

There, the Bulldogs went 5-3 overall in 1938.

After he left school, Proffitt went to work at the aluminum company in Alcoa.

Eventually he came back to Newport, and he went on to have five kids with his wife, Cordelia Teague Proffitt.

And he raised his family in a house within a mile of where he grew up.

“It’s kind of ironic,” said Mike Proffitt, “for them to be that close to each other.”

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024 | B13

Lady Vols, NC State to open 2025-26 in Greensboro NC STATE WOLFPACK women’s college basketNC State women’s basball and we look forward GREENSBORO, N.C. ketball is led by head coach to having a packed house — The Gazelle Group is next season for this terrific Wes Moore who is curpleased to announce that rently in his 12th season ACC-SEC clash.” women’s college basketat the helm. He has led TENNESSEE LADY ball is coming to the First his team to seven straight Horizon Coliseum in NCAA appearances, highVOLUNTEERS Tennessee, the winninGreensboro, North Carlighted by the team’s Final gest program in womolina, next season, as the Four last season, as well as en’s basketball history and five Sweet 16 appearances NC State Wolfpack and the Tennessee Lady Volun- the only school to appear and two Elite Eight berths. teers will tip off the season in every NCAA TournaCoach Moore has guided ment, is led by first-year on Tuesday, Nov. 4, 2025. the Pack to three ACC head coach Kim Cald“We are excited to bring Championships, includwell. She has the Lady this marquee matchup to ing the 2020 ACC TourVols off to a 2-0 start Greensboro and look fornament Championship, in 2024-25 with a high ward to adding this to which was the first for the tempo attack on both the city’s college basketprogram in 29 years. NC ends of the floor. That ball inventory”, said Rick State continues to rebuild Giles, President of Gazelle exciting brand of basket- and reload, bringing in ball has enabled CaldGroup. a top 10 recruiting class “We are excited to part- well to forge a 219-31 for the second straight career record (87.6 pct.) ner with Gazelle Group season. The Pack is curto bring another marquee in her ninth season as rently ranked No. 13 in the college basketball game to a head coach, and her AP poll.

First Horizon Coliseum,” teams have earned eight More events details to NCAA Tournament said First Horizon Colcome. For the most up to bids, appeared in two iseum General Manager date information, follow NCAA DII Final Fours, Scott Johnson. “As the Gazelle Group on X @ won a 2022 NCAA DII host of 24 ACC women’s Gazelle_Events. national title, claimed basketball tournaments seven conference champi- ABOUT GAZELLE GROUP and six NCAA womThe Gazelle Group is onships and captured five en’s basketball regiona sports marketing firm, conference tournament als, Greensboro has a specializing in event long history of supporting trophies.

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hosting NCAA Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments more than 20 times, including the Men’s Final Four in 1974, First Horizon Coliseum has hosted the ACC Men’s and Women’s Basketball Tournaments a collective 53 times, the most of any venue for both tournaments. For more information: FirstHorizonColiseum.com.

About Visit Greensboro The Greensboro Area Convention and Visitors Bureau is an independent, non-profit governmental authority whose mission is to aggressively market Greensboro’s assets, maximizing economic impact while providing excellent ABOUT FIRST HORIZON visitor service.

COLISEUM Travel and tourism genFirst Horizon Coliseum erated nearly $1.7 bil(formerly Greensboro Col- lion in Guilford County iseum), the iconic 22,000- in 2023, employing more seat arena at the heart of than 11,000 in travel-rethe Greensboro Comlated jobs, according to plex, has a long history of “The Economic Impact of hosting prestigious sportTravel on North Carolina ing events and providCounties” study prepared ing world-class live enter- for Visit North Carolina tainment. In addition to

by Tourism Economics.

Shelton From B12

of her siblings, teammates and family friends.

Southeast with the Trotters.

With jerseys from each of “We’ve been everywhere,” said Shelton’s teams around her and a her dad, Brian Shelton. “We gave picture of Heifner in the corner her every opportunity and she since he could not be there, took it. Gave up more birthday Shelton signed her name for her parties, sleepovers, nights away next chapter.

— that stuff didn’t exist in her Then she hugged her parents life because she was in the gym. one more time, reinforcing her “And she had extreme coachappreciation for their part in her ing and extreme players she was journey. doing against too. At that point “I’m tickled for her future and you have to put up or shut up.” to get to see her play college basEverywhere she went, everyketball, because that is a dream,” where she has played, Shelton said Brian Shelton. “And she has has been driven by her desire to taken God’s will and talent to be the best. get her where she is. I’m going Shylee Shelton signed with Johnson University on Monday, cementing a proSo through hurdles big and to put that moment in my back small, she arrived at the Cosby pocket and keep it for the rest of cess that began her sophomore year of high school when Johnson extended an offer. library Monday amidst a crowd my life.”

Update From B12

Mantooth had 16 points, For Smoky, Brian Worley Jayce Johnson scored 10, and Titus Spurgeon had 10 from Alexis Webber, six and Skylar Ricks, Jordan points apiece. Jayden Seyfrom Jesslyn Ashby, four Ball, Ryder Miller and mour had three, and Levi each from Maddy Gray, Caden Hall scored six Webb scored one.

Taylor Donley and Carleigh apiece.

On Thursday, BridgePosey, and two apiece from Marcus Paulette had five port will visit Grassy Fork, Zoe Sexton, Mia McCarter, points, followed by Isaac Edgemont will play at ParSavannah Bell and Kennedi Hill and Colton Holt with rottsville, and Northwest Blankenship. four. Eli Smith had two will play at Cosby in a day Haven Ramsey had 12 points. game. points for the Lady Bears, followed by four for MyceA Professional Full Service Company lia Baker.

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Candidates for employment will be required to have or obtain a commercial driver’s license class A or class B with Air Brake, P, and S, endorsements, pass a DOT physical, pass a DOT substance screening, and pass a Tennessee State School Bus Driver Certification.

You may contact the Transportation Department for applications and information.

Chris Norton Transportation Department 255 Bailey Street Newport, TN 37821 423-623-2757 transportation@cocke.k12.tn.us

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B14

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THE NEWPORT PLAIN TALK

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20, 2024

“Better Care For A Better Life.”

Proud To Be Part of This Community For 40 Years and Counting

Go Teams!

Strive for Greatness!

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