The Lady Bearcats beat the Lady Lions, 42-38, Friday at Ellsworth in the first game of the season.

As the first quarter started, Lyons grabbed the ball and were quick to score.

The Lions led after the first quarter 11-9.

As the game progressed, the Lady ‘Cats came back and at half time they were leading 18-15.

In the third quarter the Lady ‘Cats hung onto their lead ending the third 28-26. For one final push and to secure the win from Lyons, Ellsworth scored 14 points to end the game.

Jaide Talbott was the Lady ‘Cats leading scorer with 14 points — four 2-pointers and six free throws.

Maggie Windholz scored one 3-pointer, two 2-pointers, and 2 free throws for a total of nine points; Nicole Haase scored one 2-pointer and one free throw for 3 points; Makenzie Stroede scored 2 points with one 2-pointer; Lakyn Tenbrink scored one 2-pointer and one free throw for 3 points.