The Emery Spartans started fast but faded late in a 55-45 loss to the American Leadership Academy Eagles Wednesday night in Spanish Fork.

Playing for the first time since the Thanksgiving Break, the Spartans showed little signs of rust as they ended the first quarter holding a 16-11 lead. ALA erased the deficit in the second quarter and carried a slim 26-24 advantage into the break. A back-and-forth third quarter set the stage for the final stanza to decide the game.

Emery’s offense evaporated over the final eight minutes as the team produced just eight fourth-quarter points. ALA converted timely free throws late to put the game away and keep their unbeaten record intact, moving to 5-0.

Senior Jace Frandsen paced the Spartans in the setback as he scored a team-high 14 points, nine of which came from beyond the perimeter. West Johansen scored 11 and Scott Johansen also reached double-figures as he finished with 10.

The Spartans delivered one of the season’s best three-point shooting performances as the team combined for seven makes from deep.

ALA received an outstanding effort from Jaxon Hunter, who led all scorers with 16 points, converting four shots from the perimeter. Kannon Huntsman scored 15 points and Jakobe Ross ended with 10.

Wednesday’s loss drops Emery’s record to 1-3 on the young season, with all three losses coming on the road. The Spartans will have a chance to get back in the win column on Saturday at home against Panguitch. Live coverage will begin at 5:30 p.m. on KOAL 107.3 FM and 750 AM. Tipoff will follow at 6:00.