Bryson City – The Lady Devils opened their 2017-18 basketball season last Friday by hosting Robbinsville. The two teams were opening their season as well as conference play. As one might expect, things were a little sloppy for both teams. Tight officiating did not help the cause, as the two teams combined for a whopping 65 fouls. It was particularly painful for the Lady Devils who were whistled for 36 fouls and had 4 players foul out, including 3 starters.
Swain trailed 22-19 at the half, but opened the 2nd half on a big run behind their senior playmaker Lynsey Hicks. Hicks was red hot in the quarter scoring 17 of her game high 26 points in the frame. Swain outscored the Knights 21-5 over the 3rd, taking a 40-27 lead into the 4th quarter.
Unfortunately for the Devils fouls put the Black Knights into the 1 and 1 and then bonus early into the 4th quarter. Robbinsville would shoot 23 free throws making 11 in the final quarter alone.
After seeing their lead evaperate over the 4th the Lady Devils showed great tenacity. Sophomore Kierra Shook knocked down a free throw with 16.5 seconds remaining that tied the game at 50. But Robbinsville would close the game making 3 of 4 free throws to take the 53-50 win.
The Lady Devils had 3 starters, Lynsey Hicks, Alissa Smith and Taylor Collins foul out, along with Bri Ross.
Hicks paced all scorers with her 26 point effort, she added 3 rebounds, 3 assists and 3 steals. Ashton Younce tallied 8 points and 6 rebounds, while Taylor Collins finished with 7 points and 13 rebounds, senior Grace Cabe had 7 points as well.
Swain returns to action Tuesday with a trip to Rosman.