COLUMBUS GROVE, Ohio (WLIO) — Columbus Grove protected its home court and earned a key Northwest Conference win Friday night, defeating Bluffton 56-48.

The Bulldogs entered the matchup at 11-5 overall and 2-2 in NWC play, while the Pirates were still searching for their first conference victory of the season.

Bluffton made its push in the second half. Trailing by seven, Bean Ginther used a pump fake and strong finish at the rim to pull the Pirates within five.

Columbus Grove answered quickly. Trevon Baxter delivered a behind-the-back pass to Brady Basinger for the score, stretching the Bulldogs’ lead back to double digits at 31-20.

The Pirates refused to go away. Lane Ginther attacked the basket for an and-one finish, leading Bluffton with 12 points. Later, Lane found Bean again for another bucket as the Pirates cut the deficit to 40-36.

But Grove had the final response.

Sophomore Gavin Baxter grabbed a rebound, pushed it up the floor and threw down a dunk to extend the lead. Moments later, Landon Best connected with Baxter in transition for another two-handed slam to seal it.

Columbus Grove improves to 12-5 overall and 3-2 in Northwest Conference play with the 56-48 win, while Bluffton continues its search for a league victory.

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