WELLS — A lopsided first half was followed by a razor-thin second half between two local rivals.

The United South Central girls’ basketball team defeated Alden-Conger 59-36 Tuesday at USC.

While USC led by 20 points at half time, the team only outscored Alden-Conger by three points in the second half.

“We’re going to build on that,” said Alden-Conger coach Tim Strohschein. “I’m proud of my kids. … They’re not hanging they’re heads.”

Freshman guard Erika Bute led the Knights with a double-double, scoring 18 points and picking up 12 rebounds.

Junior forwards Kate Koestler and Shianne Robertson led the Rebels’ offense, with Koestler putting up 21 points and Robertson contributing 15. Senior center Lauren Allis racked up 12 rebounds and 9 blocks for USC.

“We did a really good job of seeing the open player and getting the open shot,” said USC coach Dale Koestler. “We took advantage of our height advantage.”

Next, the Rebels (6-2, 1-1 Gopher Conference) will play in the Blue Earth Area Tournament at 1 p.m. Dec. 29 against Granada-Huntley-East Chain in Blue Earth. The Knights (1-5, 1-3 Valley Conference) will compete in a girls varsity invitational Dec. 29 at Winona State University.