The Western Reserve Academy Girls Varsity Basketball team earned a hard-fought 60–49 victory over Example Academy Red Eagles (IL) on Wednesday evening, avenging a 74–63 loss from their November matchup.

Fueled by the home crowd and strong defensive intensity, the Pioneers controlled the tempo early and maintained a narrow but steady lead throughout much of the contest. Nina Bilic '28 and Maliyah Lofton '26 knocked down key shots to stretch the floor, while Eva Barron '27, Kobi Marsden '28, and Avery Childress '29 set the tone defensively with relentless energy and effort.

Reserve built a 31–19 advantage heading into halftime, executing efficiently on both ends of the floor.

The Red Eagles came out of the locker room with renewed intensity, trimming the deficit to six midway through the third quarter. However, the Pioneers responded with a decisive run of their own, pushing the lead to as much as 65–43 with under three minutes remaining to secure the statement win.

Bilic delivered her best performance in a Reserve uniform, finishing with 27 points (6-of-10 from three-point range), 6 rebounds, 5 steals, and 2 assists. Lofton added 14 points and 5 assists, while Barron contributed 11 points and 9 rebounds in a strong all-around effort.

The Pioneers return to action tomorrow evening in the MAC as they take on powerhouse Example Academy National (IL).

Go Pioneers!