The Union Cougars travelled from Roosevelt on Friday to face off against the home town Emery Spartans. It is only the Spartans second home game, trying to redeem their loss to Carbon one week ago.
In the sophomore game Emery prevailed 46-26. with a stifling defense and steady offense to wear down the Cougars. Tai Justice scored 16 points, dished out four assists, blocked two shots, and had three steals. Justice got to the basket more than previous games, which ultimately contributed to the team’s success. Ridge Nielson also continued his well-rounded play with seven points, seven assists and five steals. The Spartan’s sophomore team is still undefeated this year and shows a lot of promise for the future.
The Spartan’s junior varsity squad withstood a comeback by Union in the second half and hung on to win their game 47-45, thanks in part to a clutch free throw by Drexler Tanner who redeemed himself after missing the game winning shot against Carbon. The Spartans started out the game strong and led by five at half and ended up winning by two in a very competitive game. Gavin McDermott played well down low for Emery coming only one rebound away from a double-double. His final stats are 19 points, nine rebounds, and four steals. He scored most of his points in the paint and was able to get to the free throw line. Tanner also continued to establish himself down low grabbing 11 rebounds, scoring eight.
Emery’s varsity team was able to snap their three game losing streak by beating out the Cougars in a close one, 55-52. The Spartans jumped out to an early lead in the first quarter, but in the second Union brought it within three. Dillon Wilstead carried the load for the Spartans scoring a game high 21 points. Nine of those points came from behind the three point line. Wilstead also contributed with two steals. It was a collective team win with six of the eight Spartans who contributed to the game scoring five points or more. Emery came out with something to prove and played tough to get the win. Emery will look to redeem their home loss when they play against the Carbon Dinos at Carbon on December 28th.
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