The Western Reserve Academy Girls Varsity Basketball team welcomed a formidable opponent on Wednesday night, hosting last year's OHSAA Division I state champion, Pickerington Central, in the Pioneers' home opener. Despite a gritty defensive effort, WRA fell to the Tigers, 58–42.
The opening half unfolded at a deliberate pace, with both teams working hard for quality looks. Pickerington Central gradually built a 10-point advantage, but the Pioneers responded with a strong run late in the second quarter, cutting the deficit to 19–17 with just a few minutes remaining before halftime.
The second half mirrored the first, as scoring remained at a premium and defensive pressure defined the game. Two brief spurts by the Tigers late in the third quarter pushed the lead back into double digits. WRA continued to compete but was unable to generate another sustained run, ultimately dropping the contest, 58–42.
Offensively, the Pioneers were led by Nina Bilic '28 and Maliyah Lofton '26, who each scored nine points. Emerie Davis '27 added six points, while Avery Childress '29 chipped in five. Kobi Marsden '28 delivered a strong all-around performance with four points, eight rebounds, three steals, and two assists, and Norah Fuld '26 contributed four points, seven rebounds, and two blocks.
The Pioneers are back in action Thursday evening, traveling to face Cleveland Central Catholic before heading into winter break. Go Pioneers!
