Hopkins started fast in its season opener Thursday night at Grand Rapids West Catholic, but eventually fell 53-51 in its girls’ hoops season opener.

The Lady Vikings led throughout the first half, 15-2 at the end of the first quarter and 28-20 at intermission. But the host Falcons continued to whittle away at their deficit, creeping to within one, 35-34, with just eight minutes to go.

Kennedy Helderop, a sophomore transfer from Wayland, led all scorers with 21 points and three-year starter Megan Schulz added 12 for Hopkins followed by Brandalyn Helderop with 10.

West Catholicwas led by Brooke Norder with 18 and Jenna Doyle with 14.