The West Holmes Knights varsity girls basketball team delivered a commanding performance on Thursday night, defeating Wooster 65-43 in a home conference game.
According to the match report, West Holmes (8-10) was propelled by standout performances from Zalina Proper and Aveona Yoder, each scoring 16 points. Proper contributed six rebounds, three steals, and two assists, while Yoder added eight rebounds and two assists. Briar Cline also made a significant impact with 15 points and four assists. Greta Rolince led with nine rebounds, adding four points and two assists. Additional contributions came from Rorie Wilcox with five points, and Jewel Brown, Cara McMillen, and Ella Willard also supported offensively. Lilli Brown and Rowan Holasek combined for seven rebounds to aid West Holmes in controlling the boards.
The Knights established their dominance early through aggressive defense, forcing Wooster into challenging shots and capitalizing on turnovers. This defensive intensity created transition opportunities where Proper and Cline could push the pace for easy baskets. By halftime, West Holmes had secured a comfortable lead that they maintained throughout the second half by executing efficiently on both ends of the court.
Head coach Lindsy Belden praised the team's effort and discipline: "We came out with great energy tonight and executed our game plan well," Belden said. "Defensively, we did a great job pressuring the ball and rebounding, and offensively, we moved the ball well and found open looks. It was a great team effort."
Yoder echoed Belden's sentiments about team chemistry: "We played really well together tonight," she said. "Everyone contributed, whether it was scoring, rebounding or making the extra pass. It was a great team win."
Proper credited their defense for setting the tone: "We wanted to come out aggressive and make them uncomfortable," she said. "Our defense led to a lot of fast-break opportunities, and we were able to take advantage of them."
With this victory, West Holmes continues its strong momentum toward postseason play. The Knights have been performing some of their best basketball recently as they improve their record and position themselves favorably in conference standings.
Looking ahead to their next matchup against Mansfield Sr., scheduled for Saturday 02/01, Cline emphasized focus: "This is the time of year when we want to be playing our best," she said. "We're working hard every day to get better and make a deep run in the postseason." The Knights aim to extend their winning streak as they prepare for tournament play.
