The Utica girls basketball team pulled out a 41-40 victory over Philo in a close season opener on Friday, Nov. 22.
After trailing 16-15 at halftime, the Redskins surged in the third quarter, outscoring the Electrics 31-23 to take a 10-point lead. Philo made a push in the final quarter, but Utica held on for the narrow win.
Callie Baker and Emily Rutger each scored nine points, with Baker making three of four free throws in the final minutes to help secure the win. Makenna Wilson led the Redskins with 11 points.
Utica (1-0) will face Fredericktown at 6 p.m. on Nov. 26 in its next game.