From the opening tip-off, it was evident that the Thunderbolts came to play, securing a 14-10 lead by the end of the first quarter. In a stunning display of prowess, they continued to outmaneuver the Elks, widening the gap with an impressive 18-4 run in the second quarter, leading to a commanding 32-14 halftime advantage.
Although the Elks rallied in the second half, demonstrating significant improvement in their gameplay and managing to outscore Northmont 40-27, they were unable to fully close the deficit. Despite the valiant efforts of players like Baboucarr Njie, who led the Elks with 22 points, along with Jonathan Powell contributing 15 points and Eli Greenberg, the Thunderbolts maintained their lead until the final buzzer.
With this defeat, the Elks' overall record dropped to 11-5, with an 8-2 standing in the GWOC. The loss also narrowed their lead in the league to just one game, highlighting the increasing competition they face as a top contender.
The challenges faced by the Centerville team extend beyond this single game, as they continue to grapple with consistency issues on both the defensive and offensive fronts. Coach Cupps and his dedicated staff are committed to guiding the team through these obstacles, recognizing the talent within the group and the potential for growth.
Looking ahead, the Elks have an opportunity to bounce back and showcase their capabilities in upcoming matches. As they prepare to face Fairmont on Friday, February 2nd, the team remains focused on refining their strategies and uniting their efforts on the court.
The intensity of the game was felt across all levels, with the JV team narrowly falling to Northmont with a score of 42-41, and the 9th Gold team also experiencing a close defeat of 49-46. Despite the setbacks, the teams remain determined and eager to seize victory in their next matchups.
For fans eager to support the Centerville Elks, tickets for the upcoming games are available online at
