The Emery Spartans used a stifling defensive performance to extend their winning streak to three games with a 52-39 win over the Juab Wasps Friday evening at the Spartan Center in Castle Dale.

Meeting for the second time this season, the Spartans forced 19 turnovers and held the Wasps to just 31-percent from the field, earning a season series sweep with the victory.

Zack Tuttle scored 13 points as he shot an efficient 6-of-12 from the field to go along with three rebounds and three assists. Luke Justice scored 13 points and handed out five assists, while Creek Sharp scored 11 points.

The Spartans held a 16-6 lead at the end of the first quarter and kept a steady advantage throughout. Juab made one big run in the third quarter, chipping the Emery advantage down to three but could not get any closer.

Emery senior Wade Stilson put his fingerprints all over the region tilt as he ended with 12 rebounds, five assists, five blocks and four steals.

Friday’s win continues an upward trend for the Spartans. After suffering a three-game region losing skid, Emery has now responded with double-digit wins over Carbon, North Sanpete, and Juab.

Now 13-4 overall and 5-3 in Region-12 play, the Spartans will prepare for the final six games of the season, five of which come on the road. The next test will come Wednesday night on the road against the Delta Rabbits.