The Thunderbirds' second-quarter scoring slump was a key in their season-opening 47-35 loss to the Panthers on Tuesday night.
After carrying a slight 9-7 advantage after a frame, North Callaway was outscored by Centralia 17-4 to fall behind by 11 at halftime.
Senior Brandon Hagedorn led the T-Birds and tied for the game high with 12 points. Senior Michael Pezold and freshman Tanner Pezold both finished with nine points.
Daymond Dollens and Logan Armantrout both paced the Panthers with 12 points, while Clayton Martz pitched in with 11.
North Callaway plays at Hallsville at 5 p.m. Friday.