A five-game losing streak ended with a win over a state-ranked opponent Friday for the Columbus Wildcats girls’ basketball team (6-7). The Wildcats welcomed the No. 5 Burlington Notre Dame Nikes (10-3) to Columbus High School for a non-conference tilt. Columbus used 23 made free throws to help propel them to victory, 58-53.

The senior backcourt of Shania Boyd and Bailey Stroud accounted 42 of the 58 points scored. Boyd poured in a team-best 23 points, converting 13 of her 15 free throw attempts. She also brought down 10 rebounds. Stroud added 19 points, five rebounds, and five assists. The two combined to steal nine passes.

The win was the first for Columbus since defeating West Liberty on December 15, 83-47, improving the Wildcats’ record to 6-7 overall. Columbus continues their season Tuesday, traveling to Winfield to battle the Wolves (4-11). The varsity game is set to tip off at 6 p.m. at Winfield-Mount Union High School.