Middlesboro Middle School advanced to their conference championship game after defeating Pineville in the semifinals 41-23.

The Lady Jackets were lead in scoring by Emrey Glover with 18 points. She also added four rebounds, five assists and four steals. She was followed by Brynlee Foster with 11 points, nine rebounds, five assists and five steals. Keevie Betts added eight points, two rebounds and a steal. Laya Brown added two points and two rebounds and Kaylee Lawson also added two points and two rebounds.

“We knew coming into tonight’s game that we would definitely have to work for a win,” said Middlesboro coach Beth Evans. “Pineville is a good team and their style of play is fast and similar to our own. We were able to prepare and practice a game plan specifically for Pineville, and that definitely helped us in this game. We not only were well prepared, but we came out tonight hungry and ready to play.

“We know that our defense always turns our offense; meaning most of our points come from steals and forced turnovers. We never let up the entire game. I’m so proud of them for getting the job done.”

With the victory, the one-seed Lady Jackets advanced to the conference championship game against Harlan in Middlesboro at West End gym on Thursday.