The Emery Spartans’ winning streak continues to grow as the team won for the fifth consecutive time with a 68-53 win over the Delta Rabbits Friday night at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale.
Emery exploded out of the gate, opening a double-digit lead early in the first quarter. The Spartans never took their foot off the gas, extending their advantage to 20 in the second half, earning the season-series sweep over the Rabbits.
“We just felt like we needed to come in, after a big win over Juab, and establish that this is a big game as well,” said head coach Dave Justice. “Delta is a good team. They are very well-coached, and we knew they were going to make a run. We made just enough shots to keep the game from getting too interesting.”
The Rabbits failed to have an answer for the duo of West and Scott Johansen. West powered his way to a 12-point first half as he finished with a team-high 19. Scott dominated the glass early and took over offensively in the second half, scoring 13 of his 17 points over the final 16 minutes, connecting on three makes from deep.
When the Johansen duo was not on the floor, Will Jeffs made an impact with four points and three blocks in a reserve effort.
“I feel like I play a lot better when I can play a physical brand of basketball,” said Jeffs following the win. “West is such a good player, so I love to switch and sub for him. We have the right guys to make a run between our guards and bigs.”
While the Spartans may have dominated the post, the perimeter play continued to soar as the team connected on eight three-pointers. Jace Frandsen scored all nine of his points from the three-point line, while Porter Hurdsman and Brek Griffin also connected on one shot from deep.
Friday’s win moves Emery to 9-8 on the season and 6-2 in Region 12 play. Locked in a three-way tie for second place, the Spartans will prepare for a pivotal three-game road stretch beginning Wednesday at Richfield. The following two games will take the team to Manti and Canyon View.
“Three great programs and three great teams that will present a big challenge for us,” said Justice. “We’ve got to take it one at a time and see what happens. We are playing good ball so I hope the boys go in with a lot of confidence.”