SOUTH WHITLEY – A fast start paved the way for Norwell to defeat Whitko 61-44 in girls basketball action Thursday night.

Norwell bolted to a 20-9 lead after the opening period en route to the non-conference win.

Hanna Yohe led Whitko with 11 points.

Haley Yohe scored eight points and Brianna Cumberland six for the Wildcats.

Norwell, which is ranked No. 7 in Class 3-A and has won its last eight games, improves to 11-3. Whitko drops to 8-7.

Whitko plays at Southwood Saturday night and at Wawasee Tuesday night. Norwell plays at Bellmont Saturday night.