Wichita ? The Veritas Christian girls basketball squad had seen this before.

With a big halftime lead, Veritas watched Wichita Word of Life stage a third-quarter comeback.

During the regular season, Word of Life won. In the postseason, a second-round consolation-bracket game Friday, Veritas held on for a 56-39 victory.

“This time we really held strong and protected the lead,” Veritas coach Kevin Shelton said. “We made our free throws and won the game.”

Kristie Tiegreen led the Eagles with 21 points and 16 rebounds. Adi Willems added 17 points.

Shelton said the Eagles’ defensive effort helped them preserve their 33-18 halftime lead.

“We half-court pressed and trapped and caused a lot of turnovers for the other team,” he said. “I was real happy with our intensity in our trap.”

Veritas (11-11) will face Tyro Christian Academy in the KCAA 2A state consolation finals today.

Veritas boys 56, St. Mary’s 50

Wichita – The Veritas Christian boys basketball team rebounded from its first-round state tournament loss by winning its first consolation-bracket game.

The Eagles built a 14-point halftime lead and weathered a 21-point third quarter from St. Mary’s.

Mark Randtke led all scorers with 21 points, and Marcus Holman chipped in 16. Just four St. Mary’s players scored.

Though disappointed to be on the consolation side of the tournament, Veritas boys coach Doug Bennett said he was proud of his team’s response.

“I’m real proud of the guys for playing with heart and getting a win,” Bennett said. “We’re looking forward to playing again.”

Veritas will face Tyro Christian today in the consolation finals.