Despite holding a fourth quarter lead the Emery Spartans were unable to come away with a victory, falling to the Manti Templars 77-66 Wednesday night on the road.
Playing in the final non-region game before league play begins, the Spartans battled back from an early 12-point deficit. Controlling tempo in the second and third quarters, Emery captured a four-point lead with just under seven minutes to play. From that point on Manti captured the momentum and never looked back.
“We’ve definitely got to start games better and finish games better, and I’ll take that on my shoulders as far as getting prepared for that,” said head coach Jeff Cisneros. “I’ve got to do a better job of getting more guys time as well, because we were obviously tired in the fourth quarter.”
Senior Treven Brazier was one of three Spartans to reach double figures as he ended with a team-high 15 points. Beau Cook and Riggs Griffin both scored 14 as the Spartans converted 26 field goals for the game.
While Emery delivered a balanced offensive attack, perimeter shooting was nearly non-existent as they finished with two makes. The Spartans also struggled from the foul line, converting just 12 of 21 free throws.
“It’s just about us executing. I’m super proud of our effort, don’t get me wrong,” Cisneros said. “We played the defending state champions on their floor and we had an opportunity to get a win tonight. I think if we can continue to attack the basket we’re going to be pretty good moving forward.”
Manti senior Grady Thompson led all scorers with 26 points, eclipsing his season average of 18. Tanner Justesen chipped in with 18 and Trace Boggess scored 12 as the Templars improved to 6-3 on the season.
Wednesday’s loss marks the fourth straight for Emery, dropping their overall record to 2-5 on the young season.
The Spartans will now take a full week off before returning to the court on Friday, Jan. 8 in the Region 12 opener at home against the Richfield Wildcats. The final non-region game will take place the following day on the road against Layton Christian Academy.
Listen to Coach Cisneros’ post game interview below: