(Columbus, IN) — The East Central Trojans made a powerful statement in their opening game of the IHSAA Class 4A girls basketball state tournament on Tuesday night, overwhelming Columbus East 53-16 in a lopsided Sectional 14 contest at Columbus East High School.
The No. 25-ranked Trojans (20-3) showcased their defensive prowess and offensive efficiency in routing the Olympians (5-19), who struggled to find any offensive rhythm against one of southeastern Indiana’s most formidable defensive units.
Complete Control From Start to Finish
East Central’s dominance was evident throughout the game. The Trojans, who have been averaging 57.3 points per game this season, held Columbus East to just 16 points — well below the Olympians’ season average of 41.8 points per game.
The defensive effort was particularly impressive. East Central has been averaging nearly 16 steals per game this season, ranking among the most aggressive defensive teams in Class 4A.
Trojans Continue Strong Season
The victory improves East Central to 20-3 on the season and extends their winning streak against Columbus East to two games. The teams met earlier in the season on November 19, with East Central winning decisively, 55-27, in Columbus.
The Trojans entered the tournament as the 25th-ranked team in Indiana and 19th in Class 4A, boasting a perfect 7-0 conference record in the Eastern Indiana Athletic Conference. Their 20 wins already match or exceed their win totals from previous seasons, though they played Tuesday’s game on the road as Columbus East served as the host site for Sectional 14.
Leadership From Top Scorers
East Central’s success this season has been built on balanced scoring and strong individual performances. Senior guard Natalie Stenger, wearing No. 15, leads the team with 17.1 points per game and has been a force on the defensive end with four steals per game.
Junior Lilly Maple (No. 23) has been the team’s most versatile player, contributing 6.1 rebounds, 3.2 assists, and 1.9 blocks per game in addition to her scoring. Her all-around play has been crucial to the Trojans’ success on both ends of the floor.
Olympians’ Difficult Season Continues
For Columbus East, the loss extends a challenging season that has seen the Olympians struggle to find consistency. The team entered the tournament with a 5-19 overall record and an 0-6 mark in Hoosier Hills Conference play.
The Olympians were winless in five games against common opponents they shared with East Central this season, including losses to Jennings County, Columbus North, Seymour, and Madison. Their most competitive performance came in a one-point loss to Seymour, 44-43, on January 8.
Columbus East’s season scoring average of 41.8 points per game highlighted their offensive struggles, which were magnified in Tuesday’s tournament opener. The Olympians managed just 16 points against an East Central defense that has allowed an average of 40 points per game this season.
What’s Next
East Central advances to face Franklin Community (14-8) in the sectional semifinals on Friday night at 7:30 p.m. at Columbus East High School. The Grizzly Cubs most recently defeated Martinsville 53-40 in league play and will present another test for the Trojans’ tournament aspirations.
The first semifinal game Friday will feature Columbus North (17-6) taking on Whiteland Community (6-16) at 6 p.m., also at Columbus East, which is serving as the host site for the entire Sectional 14 tournament.
The Trojans will be looking to continue their strong postseason run after winning their sectional championship last season. Coach Kevin Moore, who has previously been named EIAC Girls Basketball Coach of the Year, has built the program into a consistent winner in southeastern Indiana.
For Columbus East, the loss ends their season and caps a rebuilding year for the Olympians. The team will look to regroup and return stronger next season with experience gained from this year’s challenges.
The Road Ahead
East Central’s path to a regional championship will require navigating through a competitive Sectional 14 field. With their perfect home record and balanced roster, the Trojans have positioned themselves as serious contenders to advance deep into the tournament.
The 51st Annual IHSAA Girls Basketball State Tournament continues throughout the week, with 64 sectional championships to be decided by Saturday, February 7. Regional games are scheduled for Saturday, February 14, with semi-state matchups set for February 21 and the state championships taking place February 28 at Gainbridge Fieldhouse in Indianapolis.