A large number of Van Wert fans flocked to Friday night’s WBL boys basketball showdown against Shawnee. Unfortunately, the Cougars fell to the Indians 60-53, dropping Van Wert out of a first place tie. Meanwhile, less than 15 minutes away, Lincolnview clinched an outright NWC championship with a win over Crestview. Stories about both teams can be found on the Sports page. Bob Barnes/Van Wert independent