CITIZEN STAFF REPORT
HYDEN — The Martin County High School Lady Cards basketball team traveled to Hyden for a scrimmage Saturday with Leslie County. The controlled scrimmage included varsity, JV and freshman squads, allowing all to fine-tune offenses, defenses and game readiness.
The atmosphere was sad as the Lady Cards, upon arriving at the gym, learned of the passing of their beloved Principal Brian Charles. Despite the heartbreaking news, the Lady Cards proceeded with the scrimmage in honor of Charles, a devoted fan and basketball enthusiast excited about the upcoming season.
Leslie County’s coach led a prayer with both teams, expressing condolences for the Charles family and the Martin County community.
The Lady Cards have dedicated the season to Charles in a gesture that reflects the principal’s impact on the school and its basketball programs.
“Mr. Charles was a staple in our school and community,” Martin County head coach Robin Newsome said. “He came into the high school and fit like a glove. The students loved him so much, and he cared for them even more. He was one of a kind and a true friend. Words cannot express how sad we are. The girls spoke about how he always told them how excited he was to watch them play this season. We are just really heartbroken.”
The scrimmage, structured differently from a regular game, unfolded with two-quarters of varsity play, followed by JV and freshman quarters in a cyclical format. Newsome strategically rotated players, experimenting with various lineups to assess different combinations on the court.
The Lady Cards showed off their offensive skill in the four quarters of varsity play. Senior Laken Williams gave an outstanding performance with 16 points, seven assists, two steals and three rebounds. Senior Katie Marcum contributed 10 points, six rebounds and three assists. Eighth-grader Maci Maynard added 10 points, eight rebounds and two assists. Brooke Marcum tallied eight points, five rebounds and two steals. Alyssa Allen tossed in four points and grabbed five rebounds. Kennadi Mollett knocked down a 3-pointer and added two rebounds and two steals. Candace Spaulding notched two points and one steal.
The Lady Cards are set to face Tug Valley in the Zip Zone Express Tip-Off Classic at 5:20 p.m. Saturday at Martin County High School, marking their final scrimmage before the regular season.