Columbus East High School

The Columbus East Olympian girls basketball team faced a tough road test Friday night in Bedford, falling to Hoosier Hills Conference opponent Bedford North-Lawrence, 52–35. The Stars set the tone early, jumping out to a quick lead in the opening period while the Olympians worked to settle into the game offensively. East responded with improved play in the second quarter, trading scores and preventing the deficit from growing before halftime. Coming out of the break, the Olympians showed renewed energy, matching Bedford’s pace through much of the third quarter and finding more success attacking the basket. Columbus East continued to compete into the fourth, putting together its strongest stretch of offense late, but Bedford’s ability to convert in the closing minutes allowed the Stars to pull away and secure the conference win. Brelyn Pool led Columbus East with 12 points, setting the pace offensively. Ella Anthis added 9 points, while Bailey Rhode chipped in 8 points. Kenzie Cheek finished with 4 points, and Lola Watkins rounded out the scoring with 2 points. The Olympians will look to regroup quickly as they return to the Orange Pit on Saturday, January 17, to host another Hoosier Hills Conference matchup against the New Albany Bulldogs. Junior varsity action is scheduled for 12:00 p.m., with the varsity game to follow.