By BRITTANI MORRIS / For the Reporter

COLUMBIANA — The Shelby County High School and Chelsea High School boys’ basketball rivalry kept its title as both teams fought for the win Dec. 9.

The Wildcats put everything into the Class 5A, Area 7 game, but the Hornets came out on top 59-53.

“I thought we had many more good moments than bad moments,” said Chelsea coach coach Micheal Napp. “I’m really pleased with our effort and how we’ve been growing over the past weeks. We had a great night with D.D.Washington our leading scorer.”

Washington finished with 17 points. Senior Jake Ganus chipped in 13 points and 10 rebounds. Brody Holder added in 12 points, including 10 points in the second half, in the win.

“I want us to win area and go to the playoffs,” said Washington.

The Hornets went into the locker room in the lead 23-22.

“We just need to find our chemistry and work hard every day in practice at every position,” said Tyler Madison, Shelby County’s top scorer.

Madison led the Wildcats with a game high of 27 points, while junior Brandon McKinney followed behind with 12 points.

The crowd was on their feet during the game, which pleased both teams. The Hornets didn’t allow much as they frustrated the Wildcats and came out with a 38-34 lead at the beginning of the fourth quarter.

Shelby County put up a fight with many good drives in the lane.

“Our goal is to come in everyday and get better,” said Shelby County coach Toriana Brown. “I think we played well tonight in spots. We didn’t play as well as we’d like to, but overall I think we had a great effort.”