The Emery Spartans are now one win away from at least a share of the Region 12 championship after defeating the South Sevier Rams 66-59 Wednesday night at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale.
Trailing throughout the majority of the first half, the Spartans rebounded, literally and figuratively, in the final 16 minutes to earn the win. Trailing by one entering the fourth quarter, Emery limited South Sevier on the glass and outscored the Rams 22-14.
“We didn’t make a lot of mistakes but we just didn’t put a lot of pressure on the ball early and we gave up a lot of offensive rebounds,” said head coach Todd Jeffs following the win. “That combined with their hot shooting made it a great game.”
Senior Brax Jensen dazzled throughout the evening as he scored a game-high 34 points and handed out six assists. Jensen finished a blazing 6-of-7 from beyond the arc, including a 21-point first half.
“He was incredible. His three-point shooting was phenomenal,” said Jeffs. “He had a huge game scoring the ball with 34 points, but still ends up with six assists. He just a great player and we are glad to have them.”
Fellow senior Jordan Ekker helped push the Emery offense with 14 points. Justin Rasmussen hauled in 11 rebounds, but scored six monumental points in the fourth quarter. Kyler Wilstead also chipped in with six points.
South Sevier standout Brandt Williams logged a team-best 20 points to lead the Rams in Wednesday’s loss. Brennan Hunt scored 12 points, while Landen Payne contributed 10. The loss sends South Sevier to 4-5 in Region 12 play.
Wednesday’s win marks the ninth consecutive for the Spartans, who remain tied with the Richfield Wildcats at the top of the division at 8-1. Emery can do their part to earn at least a share of the region crown with a win Friday against Grand in Moab.
“To me this is a scary game because there is a tendency for kids to get complacent,” Jeffs said. “Grand is a very capable basketball team and that gym can get wild and crazy. We really need to take care of business down there and walk away with a region championship.”
Live coverage of Friday night’s contest will begin at 6:30 p.m.. Tip-off will follow at 7:00. The live audio feed will also be available at castlecountryradio.com.