Columbus East High School

Columbus East girls basketball hosted Oldenburg Academy Friday night in the Orange Pit for a memorable evening that combined Senior Night recognition, a special statewide honor, and competition against one of Indiana’s top Class A programs. Prior to the varsity contest, the Olympians celebrated Senior Night, recognizing Brelyn Pool, Kenzie Cheek, and Ella Anthis for their dedication and contributions to the program. Each senior was escorted by family members during ceremonies at center court, marking an emotional milestone in their high school careers. The evening also included a significant honor for the Columbus East program. The school was selected as the recipient of the Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame’s prestigious Gift of the Game Scholarship, an award presented annually to a school chosen by the oldest living Hall of Fame inductee. On the women’s side, that inductee is former Columbus East head coach Jacqueline K. Burton, a pioneer in Indiana girls basketball who personally selected Columbus East for this year’s recognition. Following a selection process conducted by the Columbus East coaching staff, Ella Anthis was named the 2026 recipient of the Gift of the Game Scholarship. The scholarship provides $1,000 per year for four years and honors a senior female student-athlete who exemplifies commitment, character, and appreciation for the game. Anthis was recognized prior to tipoff in front of teammates, fans, and the school community, further highlighting the strong tradition of Olympian basketball and Coach Burton’s lasting legacy. On the court, the varsity Olympians competed hard but fell to Oldenburg Academy, 46–36. Columbus East held an early lead in the first quarter before offensive struggles in the middle portions of the game allowed the Twisters to build separation. Despite the result, the Olympians showed resilience and effort throughout the night. Brelyn Pool led Columbus East with 12 points, connecting on four three-pointers while battling foul trouble for much of the game. Ella Anthis added seven points, while Lola Watkins and Hayden Meek each contributed four. Kenzie Cheek scored three points, with Emma Armstrong, Krea Martin, and Bailey Rhode each adding two. Earlier in the evening, the JV Olympians earned a decisive 52–25 victory over Oldenburg Academy. Madison Gourley led the way with 17 points, followed by Brook Moss with nine. Madelyn Tapp added eight points, Jayley Smiley scored six, Mia Petro finished with five, Emma Armstrong had four, and Taylor Parker rounded out the scoring with three. Columbus East now shifts its focus to postseason play. The Olympians will open IHSAA State Tournament sectional action on Tuesday night, hosting East Central at the Orange Pit. Tipoff is scheduled for 7 p.m. Good luck, Olympians! 🧡🏀