Tamworth Thunderbolts made a lightning start to its Waratah State League men’s season on Saturday night.
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![Flying high: American import Kyle Gupton drives to the basket for this lay-up in Tamworth's big win against Central Coast Crusaders. Photo: Peter Hardin 040317PHD240 Flying high: American import Kyle Gupton drives to the basket for this lay-up in Tamworth's big win against Central Coast Crusaders. Photo: Peter Hardin 040317PHD240](/images/transform/v1/crop/frm/iCfzhC5imusBVejbYsy2JZ/0f34e458-1a21-48f5-9239-772eced8c472.jpg/r0_0_2582_3863_w1200_h678_fmax.jpg)
The home side produced a striking opening round display to outclass Central Coast Crusaders 84-63.
Tamworth set the tone early at the Sports Dome, leading by 13 points at the first change before skipping out to a 46-27 advantage by halftime.
Despite a rally from the visitors during the second stanza, it was the home side who controlled proceedings to open the new campaign in majestic style.
Thunderbolts coach John Ireland could not have been more pleased.
"Our effort, intensity and attitude was terrific," Ireland said.
"We kept them to 27 points in the first-half and while the second-half was a bit tighter, we did well to maintain our lead."
Star American import Kyle Gupton picked up right from where he left off last season.
Gupton finished with an equal team-high of 16 points (6-10 from the field), four rebounds, one assist and three steals.
"Kyle did some outstanding things for us and played a fine game," Ireland said.
Bolts skipper Justin Leehy also made a telling contribution, knocking down 16 points, as Tamworth had four different players reach double-figures, while point guard Max Chillingworth ran the offence with aplomb.
Evergreen Chris Skilton made a welcome return to the Thunderbolts line-up and contributed 12 points in 16 valuable minutes, while Armidale teenager Scott McGann caught the eye on his way to 10 points, earning a nod from Ireland.
"Scott is a 17 year-old kid from Armidale, He's 195cm and played in the small forward spot for us," he said.
"He came in early and hit a few jumpers, and played his role.
"One of the other highlights was the return of Chris, he's a three-time league leading scorer. It was great to benefit from his leadership and basketball IQ.
"Max Chill also impressed, he's only 18 and playing point guard."
All 12 Tamworth players took to the floor in a near perfect start.
Central Coast featured former Tamworth player Luke Krug, who has a visible reminder of his return home, sporting a black eye following an accidental clash.