The Emery Lady Spartans advanced past the opening round of the 2A state championship tournament as they defeated the Maeser Prep Lions 52-46 Friday morning at Orem High School.

Entering the tournament the No. 2 seed from Region 15, the Lady Spartans won the tournament's opening game in wire-to-wire fashion. Despite a late run from Maeser Prep, Emery used their defense to control the game and maintain the lead for the eventual victory.

Using a quick start in the opening quarter, the Lady Spartans opened a 14-7 lead at the end of the opening quarter. Anchoring the quick start was sophomore Lainee Jensen, who scored 10 of her team high 19 points in the first eight minutes.

Emery managed to extend their lead to 10 going into half time. Despite holding complete control throughout the first half, Emery's lead evaporated to one as the Lions opened the third quarter on a 9-0 run. Following a timeout by head coach Lynn Tuttle, the Lady Spartans recaptured control and never let go as they methodically increased their lead back to double-digits in the fourth quarter.

Freshman Megan Jensen gave Emery a big boost off of the bench, scoring 18 points in the reserve effort. Camrey Johnson and Kinlee Toomer both scored six, while Kacelyn Toomer chipped in with three.

Maeser Prep was led by sophomore Gracie Sorensen who finished with 19 points. Scoring in each quarter, Sorensen notched eight in the fourth period as the Lions attempted to make a late push. Allyson Armstrong finished with with nine points and Isabella Harrington notched seven.

The win moves Emery to the final stage of the season as the tournament shifts to the Sevier Valley Center in Richfield on Thursday. Three wins away from a state championship, the Lady Spartans will next have the daunting task of meeting Delta, the No. 1 seed from Region 13. Delta easily defeated Waterford to advance to the quarterfinals.

Thursday's contest will be the first of four girls game that evening. Tip-off for the quarterfinals contest is scheduled for 4:10 PM. Live coverage will air on KOAL 103.9 FM and 750 AM.