SHELBY — Two of the area’s best girls basketball teams collided on Monday night at Shelby.
But when it was done, the Whippets showed who was boss by rolling to a 65-48 decision over Buckeye Central.
“This was a great win over very talented and well-coached team from Buckeye Central,” Shelby coach Natalie Lantz said.
The Whippets (9-0 overall) edged in front 15-12 after the first quarter and extended their lead to 32-27 at halftime. The Buckettes (8-2) hung tough through the third quarter, staying within 41-35 heading to the final eight minutes. But Shelby exploded in the fourth period with a 24-13 spree to pocket the victory.
Olivia Baker had a stellar performance for the Whippets, leading the team with 27 points. Emma Randall and Haylee Baker notched 13 and 12 points, respectively, for Shelby.
“Olivia had a fantastic 3-point shot and has been working on her footwork so she can get to the basket,” Lantz said.
Claudia Pifher netted 17 points for Buckeye Central and teammate Taylor Ratliff added 12 points.
Shelby will be in action again on Friday at the Wayne Roller Holiday Showcase at 8:20 p.m. at Mansfield Christian High School.
The Buckettes travel to Carey on Saturday at 12:30 p.m.
