The Columbus Wildcats and WACO Warriors split a basketball doubleheader last night in Wayland. Columbus won a thriller in the girls’ game, rallying from an early deficit to take a 20-19 lead at halftime. WACO would go back in front 33-31 heading into the final period, but the Wildcats found a way to edge out the Warriors for a 43-42 win.

Lily Coil led the way for Columbus with another double-double, as the junior had game highs of 19 points and 11 rebounds as well as knocking down a game-high four three-pointers. Sophomore Isabel Rendon had nine points and five rebounds, while juniors Frannie Sosa and Aracely Garza combined for 12 points, 13 boards, three assists and three steals to help the Wildcats improve to 9-1 in the North division of the Southeast Iowa Super Conference and 11-3 overall.

Junior Ella Huisenga led WACO with 13 points scored, while senior Emma Wagler was also in double figures with 11, but the Warriors still fall to 6-4 in conference play and 6-7 in total.

The boys’ game was all WACO, with the Warriors taking a commanding 39-5 lead after one quarter of play and never looking back en route to a 81-34 victory over Columbus. Senior guard Hunter Hughes had a monster night for WACO, hitting five triples and pouring in a game-high 33 points, 26 of which came in the first half.

Senior Colton Leichty added 14 points as the Warriors jump to 8-1 in the Super Conference North and 8-3 overall. Senior Tim Hills-Carrier paced Columbus with 15 points scored as the Wildcats drop to 2-7 in league action and 2-10 overall.