LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — A battle between two of the top three teams in the Northwest Central Conference lived up to the billing at the Covered Wagon.

Upper Scioto Valley entered the night a perfect 6-0 in conference play and riding a 10-game winning streak over Temple Christian. The Rams looked poised to keep that run alive early on.

In the first quarter, Beau Sanders converted an and-one opportunity to give USV the early edge. Moments later, Caiden Lowery knocked down a three-pointer as the Rams stretched their lead to six.

Temple Christian didn’t flinch.

Senior Derek Shultz led the charge, slicing through the defense on his way to a game-high 22 points. Nevan Long added 10 points in the paint, while Nolyn Wright knocked down a key jumper as the Pioneers began to chip away.

Temple Christian’s ball movement proved crucial down the stretch. Caynan Schick added to the surge as the Pioneers continued to find quality looks on the offensive end.

By the final buzzer, Temple Christian had completed the comeback, handing Upper Scioto Valley its first conference loss of the season with a 61-57 victory.

The win tightens the NWCC race as postseason play approaches.

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