Beloit, OH -- After finishing 2025 strong with a win over Shelby, the West Branch Lady Warrior basketball team aimed to carry that momentum into 2026. Today, the girls welcomed Austintown Fitch and faced a tough challenge for the first three quarters, but the Warriors pulled away in the fourth to secure a convincing 55–37 home victory.

The underdog Falcons played a solid first half and were in great position heading into halftime, only trailing by three after a sloppy opening from Coach DeShields' team. However, the energy out of halftime was much better for the girls in green and white. The offense and defense clicked, as West Branch outscored Fitch 31–16 in the second half to cruise to a commanding victory.

West Branch had three players reach double figures. After a slow first half, freshman Madi Hoopes picked up the pace to lead the team with 17 points, marking her tenth straight game of double-figure scoring. Tallie Muniz added 11 points, and Audrey Eaton finished with 10. Sammi Beatty contributed eight points to the effort.

What's Next: With the win, West Branch improves to 9–1 on the season. The Lady Warriors will face a big matchup this Wednesday at home against arch rival Salem, with JV tipping off at 5:30 p.m. and varsity to follow.