Columbus East High School

The Columbus East Olympian girls basketball team made the trip to North Vernon on Thursday night for a tough road challenge against the Jennings County Panthers, the Class 3A No. 9-ranked squad in the state. Led by Kansas commit and 6-foot guard Mollie Ernstes, the Panthers controlled the tempo early and pulled away for a 71–33 victory. Despite facing one of the top teams in Indiana, the Olympians continued to compete throughout the night. On the varsity side, Columbus East spread the scoring load, with Ella Anthis leading the way with 8 points. Lola Watkins and Kenzie Cheek followed with 6 points apiece, while Emma Armstrong and Breylyn Pool each added 5 points. Madison Gourley rounded out the scoring with 2 points. The JV contest was a much tighter battle, as the Olympians stayed within striking distance before ultimately falling 41–32. Madison Gourley paced the JV O’s with 10 points, while Mia Petro added 6. Madelyn Tapp finished with 5 points, Emma Armstrong and Taylor Parker chipped in 4 each, and Brooke Moss contributed 3 points. Columbus East now turns its attention forward and will be back in action Saturday, January 24th (weather pending), with a noon JV tip followed by the varsity game. Keep grinding, keep learning, and keep moving forward—good luck, O’s.