The Emery Spartans managed to hold off a late second half surge from American Leadership Academy to secure a 58-53 win in the season opener Friday evening in Spanish Fork.

An efficient first half allowed the Spartans to take a comfortable 35-21 lead into the first half break. ALA responded with a full court press to start the second half, outscoring Emery 14-7 in the third and 18-16 in the fourth.

Emery senior Jordan Ekker posted a game-high 19 points in his first varsity start. Fellow senior Brax Jensen shot an efficient 5-9 from the field to score 14 points to go along with ten assists. Kyler Wilstead also recorded a double-double with 10 points and 10 rebounds.

As a team the Spartans shot 52-percent from the field, but struggled from the three-point line as they converted just six-of-25 attempts. The team also shot just 53-percent from the foul line.

After a sluggish first half ALA senior Jonah Larsen poured in a team-high 17 points, knocking down three shots from beyond the arc. Marcus Kemp ended with 12, while Jacob Negus and Norman Rentschler combined for 21.

The Spartans will now look to expand on Friday’s season opening win when they return to the court Tuesday night against American Heritage Academy in the home opener at the Spartan Center. Tip-off for the tilt is scheduled to begin at 7:00 p.m..