As the fairly new tradition of Battle of the Bolt approaches, tension grows between students at Eagle High and Owyhee High. Battle of the Bolt has taken place the last two basketball seasons, alternating between Eagle High and Owyhee High’s court. The game is a fierce competition between the schools’ basketball teams, with separate boys’ and girls’ games taking place on Jan. 9, 2025.  

Battle of the Bolt is a contest that not only compares the basketball teams, but the school’s spirit as well. The lightning bolt trophy goes to the school who had the best spirit, cheers and dance. It’s a night filled with loud cheering, pride and enthusiasm.  

“The feeling of playing in front of a sold-out crowd with red on one side and green on the other has been a blast the last few years,” said Owyhee High’s coach Andy Harrington. The student section sits on the floor of the gym which creates an environment like no other. From this, one would assume there is immense pressure on the players. 

“To be honest, we haven’t thought about that game yet as I am sure Coach Pickett is in the same boat because we play a game tonight,” Harrington said prior to the game took place. “We will talk about it more tomorrow, but we won’t really overhype it to our players. Just a great opportunity to play on an amazing stage.” Battle of the Bolt is always a healthy competitive game.  

This year, both schools have decided to add the girls’ varsity game before the boys’ varsity game. This provides the teams the same opportunity to play in front of an electric crowd and receive recognition. Battle of the Bolt also provides the schools with an opportunity for their cheer, spirit and dance teams to take center stage.  

This season, Owyhee High came out on top for the boys’ game, the girls’ game and the spirit competition. If not this year, make sure to check out Battle of the Bolt in 2026 to see who takes home the lightning bolt trophy. There is no better crowd than those of rivalry schools in one place.