The Western Reserve Academy Girls Varsity Basketball team opened the 2026 calendar year in style on Wednesday night, earning a convincing 68–20 victory over The Linsly School in front of an energetic home crowd.

From the opening tip, the Pioneers set the tone on both ends of the floor, applying consistent defensive pressure while pushing the pace offensively. WRA built a commanding 41–14 lead by halftime and continued to get up and down the floor and share the ball throughout the second half, extending the advantage en route to the 48-point win.

All 13 Pioneers contributed in the contest, underscoring the team's depth and unselfish play. Freshman Avery Childress '29 led the scoring for the second straight game with 14 points, while also recording four steals. Newcomer Eva Barron '27 made an immediate impact in her first game wearing a WRA uniform, finishing with nine points, four rebounds, three assists, and two steals.

Additional contributions came from Maliyah Lofton '26 (eight points, four steals, three assists), Lora Lingga '27 (seven points, eight rebounds), Mia Lindal '26 (six points), and Emerie Davis '27 (six points). Milou de Heus '28 and Kobi Marsden '28 added strong all-around performances, helping anchor another complete team effort.

The Pioneers now hit the road for a challenging weekend, traveling to face The Lawrenceville School (NJ) on Saturday before taking on SC Next No. 13 Westtown School (PA) later that afternoon. Go Pioneers!