The Wayland girls’ varsity basketball team pulled off a big victory Tuesday on its home court with a 53-40 decision over Grand Rapids Catholic Central.

The Cougars and the Lady Wildcats entered the contest with 3-0 records in O-K Gold Conference play and Catholic Central claimed Byron Center as one of its victims earlier this season.

Meanwhile, the Wayland boys lost 90-77 to Catholic Central on their home court to fall to 6-3 on the season overall.

The Lady ‘Cats took command early and maintained their advantage. They led 29-18 at halftime and kept the Cougars at bay the rest of the way.

Three of Wayland’s starting five scored in double figures to pace the offensive attack. Sophomore Harmony Laker netted 19 points, senior guard Maddy Terry added 13, including three, three-pointers, and junior Reese Coughlin came up with 12.

The victory improved Wayland’s overall season record to 10-2 and established coach Wes Hudson’s group as the league front-runner.

Wayland will have a tough task, however, at South Christian Friday at 6 p.m. The Sailors have lost only once in the league, to fellow title contender Forest Hills Eastern.