Lakeland High School senior Marche’ Everette was the opener and the closer for the Cavaliers on Thursday night, leading them to a 66-50 victory over host Hickory High School.

“This was the most efficient game I’ve seen Marche’ play,” Lakeland head coach Clint Wright said. “He’s always had that potential.”

Everette recorded a career-high 31 points to go with 11 rebounds.

“He made it happen on the low post, and then he also hit some mid-range shots,” Wright said.

After Everette gained confidence from converting baskets early, Wright said his team purposefully slowed the game down to feed him in the post. Junior Kenya Latham was the key distributor for the Cavs, with eight assists to go with his six points.

Lakeland took a 16-7 lead into the second quarter, but then Wright said, “We weren’t as patient as we should have been.”

Then, it was the Hawks who were efficient and took a 28-25 halftime lead.

“The second half we dialed it up and played Lakeland style of basketball,” Wright said.

The Cavaliers took a 10-point lead after the third period and Everette came on strong to seal the win. Wright said seemingly whenever Everette missed down low, sophomore Jaquan Yulee was on the other side to help out. Yulee finished with 10 points and eight rebounds.

While giving due respect to Hickory, Wright expected his team to have the advantage on the night. Therefore, he used the game as an opportunity to adjust his lineup throughout, to push both his experienced and inexperienced players.

“We had a few lethargic efforts, and we went with some players that don’t get out there and customarily play,” he said.

Lakeland (3-4, 0-2) will return to action on Dec. 26 against Norview High School in the King’s Fork High School-hosted Christmas tournament. Tip-off will be at 3 p.m.