Beloit, OH -- Any time West Branch and Salem meet, it's going to be a competitive, high-energy game regardless of the records. In the last meeting, the West Branch girls emerged victorious over their rivals and were looking to complete the series sweep. They did just that, as Coach DeShields' Warriors claimed a 46–34 road victory.
First Half
West Branch got exactly the start they wanted, jumping out to a 14–5 lead behind a strong five-point first quarter from freshman Madi Hoopes. Salem didn't go away, however, as the Lady Quakers went on a scoring run of their own to keep the game close. West Branch carried a 24–19 lead into halftime, giving Salem belief they could make a push in the second half.
Second Half
Coming out of halftime, it was once again Hoopes who found her rhythm, scoring nine points in the third quarter. The Warrior defense was swarming, limiting the Lady Quakers to just one point in the period. That stretch proved to be the difference, as even a strong fourth quarter from Salem wasn't enough. West Branch secured the series sweep with a 46–34 victory.
Leading Scorers
What's next: West Branch will next play in a marquee matchup against Canfield on Wednesday, Feb. 4, featured as the WKBN High School Girls Basketball Game of the Week.
