NEWPORT-A big performance helped lift the Cocke County High School Fighting Cocks over an improved Hardin Valley basketball team.

Despite beating a number of Knoxville foes since the change to the new calendar year, the Fighting Cocks were able to get by Hardin Valley by a 62-55 score on Thursday night.

Hardin Valley came into the game off of a victory over 14-5 Knox Halls two nights earlier.

“That was a good measuring stick win, especially after some of the wins they’ve had in their league and for us to come in and play that well,” Cocke County coach Ray Evans said. “The kids are continuing to grow up before our eyes and growing up each game.

“If they keep doing that, then we will be in good shape,” Evans said.

For the full story, see the January 26-27 edition of the Newport Plain Talk.