Sophomore guard Ronnie Edward pumped in a game-high 19 points to led four West Lincoln players in double-figures as the Bears trounced the Salem Wildcats 85-45 in Saturday night basketball action at Jack Case Gymnasium.

In girls’ action, the Salem Lady Wildcats exploded in the fourth quarter to escape the Lady Bears with 43-31 victory.

West Lincoln resumes action Thursday as they visit Enterprise for battle in the Lincoln County Tournament. The Bears and Lady Bears are set the to battle Loyd Star in the opening round. Game time is at 4 p.m. for the girls, followed by the boys.

Salem 43, West Lincoln 31 

The Lady Bears and Lady Wildcats battle in a tough, physical contest for three quarters, before Salem managed to overpower West Lincoln in the final frame with 16-6 run to secure the win.

Sophomore guard Alli Mullins was the offensive leader for the Lady Bears (1-6) with 12 points and five rebounds. Heather Moak contributed 10 points and six rebounds. Hanna Moak paced the Lady Bears on the boards with eight rebounds and had six steals.

Ariel Fortenberry pumped in a game-high 15 points to lead the Lady Cats (5-3). Jasmine May chipped in 11 points.

West Lincoln 85, Salem 45 

The Bears (6-1) high-octane offense was too much for the Wildcats to handle as the West Lincoln secured a 52-16 lead at halftime and coasted in the second half for the victory.

Ke-Shaun London and Jason Watts helped fuel the flames for the Bears with 18 points apiece. London also dished out 10 assists. Sid Griffin chipped in with 12 points. Sam Bivens added 11 points. Chase Buckles was the leader on the boards for the Bears with 10 rebounds.

Austin Fazande and Donovan Harness were the top scorers for the Wildcats (3-4) with 11 points each.