WOLSEY – Wolsey-Wessington used a second-half rally to defeat Aberdeen Christian in girls’ basketball on Tuesday night.

The Warbirds erased a five-point deficit to top the Knights 40-34 in a non-conference contest thanks to a 21-15 second half.

Despite the loss, Knights coach Cristian Martinez was pleased with his team’s effort.

“This game was the best game we have (had) this season,” Martinez said. “We showed so much potential, especially on defense. We came back on defense quick.”

Tied at 19 entering the second half, Christian built a 26-21 lead before Wolsey-Wessington went on a 13-1 run that lasted into the fourth quarter, building a 34-27 lead. From there the Warbirds held off any comeback attempt from the Knights to claim the win.

Wolsey-Wessington began the contest on a 10-2 run, but Aberdeen Christian fought back, rallying to take a 19-17 lead before heading into the halftime break tied.

The Warbirds were led by Kendal Uttecht with 11 points, while Paytin Kemnitz had 10. Shae Uttecht and Lainey Uttecht totaled eight and seven, respectively.

Sophia Fogarty led the Knights with nine points, while Chloe Holt and Payton Skarin each had six.

Martinez was glad to see his players perform well.

“Payton Skarin (led) us with two big threes and played great defense,” Martinez said. “Also, our seniors looked great.”

Wolsey-Wessington (3-6) will host Sanborn Central-Woonsocket on Friday, while Aberdeen Christian (0-7) will host Potter County on Friday.

ABERDEEN CHRISTIAN (0-7): Bailey Hunstad 2 1-2 5, Sophia Fogarty 2 4-10 9, Jolie Fogarty 2 0-2 4, Chloe Holt 2 2-2 6, Chloe Bosma 2 0-0 4, Payton Skarin 2 0-0 6. Totals 12 7-16 34.

WOLSEY-WESSINGTON (3-6): Payton Kemnitz 3 4-6 10, Shae Uttecht 4 0-1 8, Kendal Uttecht 5 1-2 11, Lainey Uttecht 2 3-8 7, Maria Nelson 1 0-0 2, Kenli Hooks 0 2-6 2. Totals 15 10-23 40.

Aberdeen Christian 6 19 27 34

Wolsey-Wessington 12 19 28 40

3-point field goals – Skarin (2), S. Fogarty. Total fouls – Aberdeen Christian 19; Wolsey- Wessington 17. Rebounds – Wolsey-Wessington 24 (L. Uttecht 9). Turnovers – Aberdeen Christian 23; Wolsey-Wessington 17. Steals – Wolsey-Wessington 8.