The Thunderdome was packed and loud Friday night as the Bolts kicked off their home opener against perennial GWOC power, Centerville.

The crowd was in for a treat as the Bolts and Elks kept things interesting. Both teams leaned on their defense as the halftime score sat at 16-16 after a quiet offensive half.

“I think our defense kept things manageable for us” Coach Spears said on the overall feel.

Both teams would continue to battle out as the 2nd half wore on. Northmont led by as much as 5 points. But Centerville seemed to have an answer for every bucket. Late in the game, Trey Sam knocked down 1 of 2 free throws to take the lead 40-39. With 2.2 seconds left, Northmont got a pass down the court that allowed sophomore Kaleb Kelly to get a shot at the buzzer that just missed. The Elks would go on to win 40-39, however Coach Spears felt very optimistic.

“I’m as proud of a team as you can be in a loss”.

The loss knocks the Bolts to 0-2 overall and 0-1 in GWOC play. Senior Chisom Ibe led scoring with 14 points. Sophomore Ja’Kye Hoard was not far behind with 10 points.

JV would battle back late, erasing a 9-point deficit to lose 53-51 against the Elks. Freshman Braylon Jones poured in 15 points in the loss. Junior Anthony Lemon scored 12 points. The loss drops the JV Bolts to 1-1 on the year.

Freshman would lose 67-36 to drop to 0-2 on the year. Marcus Lindsh scored 12 points to lead the Bolts. Cam Copeland provided 9 points as well.

Varsity will be back in action this Sunday against Pickerington Central at the Rich Kidd Classic at Centerville High School. Game time is at 3pm.

JV/Freshman will return to the Thunderdome next Tuesday for a non-conference matchup with Versailles,