East Olympians Fall to Center Grove in Tight Game

Columbus East led early but couldn't overcome third-quarter turnovers against the Trojans

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Columbus East had the lead for most of the game against Center Grove, but a turnover-filled third quarter allowed the Trojans to rally and defeat the Olympians 49-45. East built a 10-point lead in the second quarter and was still up 24-20 at halftime, but Center Grove's pressure defense caused problems in the third, leading to a 36-29 deficit heading to the fourth. The Olympians made late pushes to get back in it but couldn't complete the comeback.

Why it matters

This game highlighted the importance of taking care of the ball, especially against tough defensive teams like Center Grove. East's early lead and rebounding advantage showed their potential, but the third-quarter turnovers proved to be their downfall. The loss is a setback for the Olympians, who were looking to build momentum after a strong start to the season.

The details

Columbus East led by as many as 10 points in the second quarter and was still up 24-20 at halftime. But Center Grove's pressure defense caused problems in the third quarter, leading to 14 East turnovers. The Trojans capitalized on the miscues, outscoring the Olympians 18-5 in the period to take a 36-29 lead into the fourth. East made late pushes to get back in it, cutting the deficit to four points three times in the final quarter, but Center Grove answered each time to hold on for the 49-45 victory.

  • East led by as many as 10 points in the second quarter.
  • East was up 24-20 at halftime.
  • Center Grove outscored East 18-5 in the third quarter to take a 36-29 lead.
  • East cut the deficit to 4 points three times in the fourth quarter, but couldn't complete the comeback.

The players

Keaton Lawson

Led East with 14 points and 5 rebounds.

Ben Ellegood

Added 11 points and 5 rebounds for East.

Judah Lewis

East's starting guard who missed the game due to a concussion suffered the previous week.

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What they’re saying

“We must take better care of the ball, especially against tough defensive teams like Center Grove. The turnovers in the third quarter really hurt us and allowed them to take control of the game.”

— Keaton Lawson, East Player

What’s next

East will look to rebound in their next game against rival Bloomington North on Friday.

The takeaway

This game highlighted the importance of limiting turnovers and maintaining composure against intense defensive pressure. East showed they can compete with top teams, but need to shore up their ball-handling and decision-making to finish close games against quality opponents like Center Grove.