LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The Holy War lived up to its name as Delphos St. John’s outlasted Lima Central Catholic, 66-62, in overtime, extending the Blue Jays’ unbeaten start to the season.

The longtime rivalry — dating back to 1957 — delivered another classic inside Msgr. E.C. Herr Gymnasium. Lima Central Catholic entered at 7-4, while Delphos St. John’s put its perfect record on the line at 11-0.

LCC controlled much of the first half behind senior Jordan Priddy, who scored 16 points in the opening 16 minutes. Priddy knocked down multiple jumpers as the Thunderbirds carried a 27-21 lead into halftime.

Delphos St. John’s stayed within striking distance thanks to Cameron Elwer, who finished the half with 11 points. Jaxon White added eight points for the Thunderbirds.

LCC continued its momentum in the second half, highlighted by a three-pointer from Brevan Stolly. The Thunderbirds led by as many as 10 points in the third quarter.

St. John’s responded by chipping away at the deficit. Andrew Elwer attacked the rim, and Cameron Elwer tied the game at 46 with a clutch basket before giving the Blue Jays the lead moments later. The Furman commit finished with a team-high 31 points.

Priddy answered with an and-one to push LCC back in front, 49-48, heading into the fourth. The teams traded baskets down the stretch, with Priddy tying the game at 58 on an inbound play as time expired in regulation.

In overtime, Priddy continued his standout night, finishing with a game-high 34 points. But Delphos St. John’s defense delivered in the closing moments. Easton Elwer came away with a steal and score, helping seal the four-point victory.

The Blue Jays improve to 12-0 on the season and will next face unbeaten Marion Local on Jan. 16. Lima Central Catholic falls to 7-5 and will look to bounce back against NWC foe Bluffton.

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