Bolton boys' renaissance continues with first-round playoff win against Livingston Collegiate
By LaMar Gafford
Photo of Bolton senior Cedric "C.J." Stanford (2)
ALEXANDRIA, La. - A new era of Bolton boys basketball has arrived.
With the Bears playing in their first playoff game since 2019, they went on to defeat Livingston Collegiate, 77-65, in the first round of the LHSAA Division II select playoffs. The Bears were hosting their first playoff game since 2007, which led to an electric crowd.
“I’ve got a great bunch of kids,” Bolton coach Fred Eloi said. “I love what I’m doing and I love this school.
"I’m happier for them than I am for me. This is something that they are going to remember forever.”
Both teams played at a fast tempo with the teams tied at 18 after the first quarter, but the second quarter proved to be the difference.
Bolton (18-11) outscored the Wolves, 17-6, in the second stanza and ended the first half on a groove when senior Cedric “C.J.” Stanford banked in a 3-pointer as time expired.
Bear senior Jaylen Welch controlled the pace all game with 24 points and 12 assists, while Stanford added 20 points, eight rebounds and five assists.
Bolton senior guard Jaylen Welch (3) dribbles the ball up the floor during the Bears' first-round matchup against Livingston Collegiate in the first round of the LHSAA Division II select playoffs.
“When we went into halftime, (Stanford’s shot) gave us a little boost,” Eloi said. “We were starting to get a little frustrated, but when he did that, it brought us back up again.”
Livingston (12-14) kept up with Bolton in the second half, but it was not enough as it bowed out in the first round for the second straight season.
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Wolf senior DeShawn Riley scored 14 points in the paint and had two other teammates with over 20 points.
To say it has been a banner year for Bolton on the hardwood would be an understatement.
The Bears celebrated their first district title since 1974 when they won District 2-3A outright two weeks ago.
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While it is unknown when was the last time they won a playoff game, since LHSAA brackets go all the way to 2002, it is the first playoff win for Eloi.
“I could have retired, but I knew this group was special,” Eloi said. “I was definitely coming back to watch these guys do what they are doing right now.
"I may be back again next year. I told them I would, but we’ll see.”
Bolton travels to Archbishop Hannan for the Division II select regionals Tuesday.
Bolton coach Fred Eloi instructs his Bears from the bench.
