The Emery Spartans ended the home portion of the season’s schedule with a signature 92-83 win over the Grand Red Devils at the Spartan Center Wednesday night.

Emery led the majority of the game and extended the lead to 26 points in the third quarter. Grand refused to quit and reduced the deficit to just six in the fourth period. The Spartans weathered the run, and converted several big free throws to ice the game.

“They can score points real quick, and we kind of slacked off a little,” said Butler. “We needed to rebound and play defense. We know we can always score, but our defense seems to come back to get us.”

Kyson Stilson finished with 34 points and nine rebounds to lead Emery to the team’s fifth region win of the season. Brax Jensen scored 18 points, Cade Brazier contributed 16, and senior Ty Butler ended with 11.

Masen Ward helped push the Grand offense with 22 points and nine rebounds. Brayden Schultz scored 16, and Nolan Ramirez finished with 10.

A total of six players fouled out in one of the lengthiest games of the season. The two teams combined to shoot 64 free throws. In a game where both teams posted nearly identical stat lines, the Spartans converting 33-of-40 from the foul line gave them the advantage.

Needing a win to remain in contention for the region championship, the Red Devils are now locked in as the division’s No. 2 seed.

The Emery win clinches a playoff berth with one game remaining on the regular slate. The Spartans can solidify the No. 4 seed in the region with a win over San Juan in Blanding Friday night.

Friday’s regular season finale will air on KOAL 107.3 FM and 750 AM. Live coverage of the contest is scheduled to begin at 6:30 p.m..

**Photo Courtesy of ETV 10 News**