The Emery Spartans were unable to keep pace with the Union Cougars, falling 68-63 in a highly entertaining Region 13 showdown on Wednesday night at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale.
Union’s Ryan Oakey poured in a game-high 35 points, connecting on 10 three-pointers, sparking a massive second half for the Cougars. Oakey’s impressive shooting display included six makes from beyond the perimeter in the second half alone.
Playing the second night of a rare back-to-back, the Spartans trailed 20-16 at the end of the first quarter. An improved defensive effort and efficient offense allowed Emery to capture a 32-29 lead heading into the break.
Exchanging blows throughout a competitive third quarter, the two teams entered the final stanza tied at 45. The final eight minutes of the game belonged to Oakey and Union.
The Cougars outscored the Spartans 23-18 in the fourth quarter, gaining their largest lead of nine in the final three minutes. While Emery fought back to cut it to one possession, timely free throws from Union put the game on ice.
“We were in control of the game most of the first half and some of the third quarter, but they started making shots,” said head coach Dave Justice. “Oakey is a microwave. When he gets hot, he’s tough to stop. We did cut it to three, and we kept battling, so I’m proud of how the kids fought back.”
Emery senior Porter Sitterud scored 28 points, putting together two consistent halves of offensive basketball in the loss. Sophomore Brek Griffin scored 24 points, helping the Spartans remain within striking distance.
Wednesday’s loss moves Emery to 1-1 in Region 13, with two games left in the first of two go-arounds.
Union now sits at the top of the region standings as the only unbeaten team in the division. Emery, Carbon, and Manti are all 1-1, while North Sanpete is in last, still in search of their first win.
Friday, the Spartans will return to the court in a highly important tilt with North Sanpete at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale. Tip-off is scheduled for 7:00 pm, with live coverage beginning at 6:30 on KOAL 107.3 FM, 750 AM, KSL Sports App, and YouTube.