It will be hard to argue that the Harlan Count Black Bears aren’t ready for tough competition when the postseason opens later this month.
Two days after falling to Pulaski County, the 12th Region’s top team and the state’s only undefeated squad, the Bears traveled to Breathitt County to face the 14th Region’s preseason favorite and the All “A” Classic state runner-up.
Breathitt County pulled away down the stretch to claim an 80-68 win over the Bears on Thursday. Freshman guard Austin Sperry led the 18-5 Bobcats with 19 points. Jaylen Turner and Christian Collins added 17 and 14 points, respectively.
The 16-8 Bears were led by a 29-point performance from Trent Noah. Jonah Swanner chipped in with 16 points. Daniel Carmical added 11. It was the third straight loss for HCHS.
Harlan County will play St. Xavier on Saturday at the Ed Stepp/WCHS Classic at Kentucky State University.
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Stallard scored 12 points and Turner added eight as Breathitt County edged HCHS 42-40 In junior varsity action.
Jaycee Carter and Brody Napier led the 6-5 Bears with 14 points each. Hunter Napier added 10. Caleb Johnson and Ethan Simpson added seven and five points, respectively.
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Breathitt County (80) — Christian Collins 14, Jaylen Turner 17, Luke Bellamy 8, Bryce Hoskins 8, Austin Sperry 19, Isaac Bellamy 4, Andrew Combs 7.
Harlan County (68) — Maddox Huff 5, Trent Noah 29, Daniel Carmical 11, Jonah Swanner 16, Jackson Huff 7.

Harlan County 12 14 19 23 — 68
Breathitt County 14 17 24 27 — 82