An all-around team performance helped the Emery Spartans sprint past the North Sanpete Hawks 76-61 Wednesday night at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale.

Kyson Stilson scored 11 of his game-high 23 points in the opening quarter, while Tyler Butler hit six three-point shots leading to his 20 point performance. Easton Gordon worked as the third Spartan in double-figures with 13 points.

“It was definitely really fun to play in a game like this,” said Stilson. “In the beginning of the season we really played well, and played fast. The last couple of games we’ve kind of struggled, but we found our rhythm again tonight.”

Sophomore Brax Jensen played an important role in the team’s offensive success by setting up teammates with a large number of assists. Jensen also finished with nine points, all of which came from the free throw line.

“I think it’s really just as fun to watch your teammates do well than it is for you do to well,” said Jensen. “The game is really easier for me too when the guys are knocking down their shots.”

Jensen was not the only Spartan to benefit at the free throw line. Emery converted 26-of-30 attempts at the line, compared to just 9-of-11 for North Sanpete. A double-digit second half deficit forced the Hawks into a full court press, upping the physicality of the game.

Spencer Steadman finished with 19 points to lead the Hawks in the setback. Shawn Taylor finished with 16 points, and Joe Garlick ended with 10.

Wednesday’s win moves Emery to 3-1 in Region 15 play, keeping the Spartans in the upper half of the competitive division. The loss dips North Sanpete to 2-2.

The Spartans will return to the court on Friday with a road trip to Manti to meet the Templars. After playing the first three region games at home, the Spartans will now be on the road for five of the next six region tilts.

**Photo Courtesy of ETV10 News