Emery started this week of games where it left off last week, with a lot of energy and teamwork. The Spartans had a rubber match against the Red Devils in the quarterfinals. Early in the game, Grand went on an 8-0 run to take the led. Cade Brazier stopped the Emery stall with a big three to regain the advantage 15-14, at the end of the first quarter.
A couple possession later, Brodie Tuttle added a bucket. Then he got a steal and hit a three to push Emery’s led to four, 20-16. The Spartans continued to extend the game and were up 37-22 at half. Tuttle was big in the first half and recorded three steals and 15 points.
Brax Jensen fouled out with 4:40 left in the third quarter, which brought a huge disadvantage the now point guard-less Spartans. It was truly next man up, as Kyson Stilson played the role beautifully and never let the Red Devils get close. The Spartans won the game 77-56. Stilson led all scores with 29 points and had seven rebounds. Tuttle finished with 17 points and four steals while Kyler Wilstead led the team with 11 rebounds. Rance Jensen had three offensive rebounds in the game that were huge as he was able to put them back in and keep Grand at bay. Just like against South Summit, every player on the court executed his role extremely well to help Emery advance. They also filled in for each other when the team needed them. When Brax fouled out it was Stilson. When Wilstead fouled out minutes later, Brazier came in and got two rebounds, a block and a big three. Mason Faimalo also provided valuable minutes.
The Spartans will need a whole team effort again tomorrow as they take on the number one seed Richfield in the semifinals. The last game against the Wildcats left a bad taste in Emery’s mouth so eliminating Richfield would provide sweet justice to a hungry Emery team. Tip-off is at 9:10 pm and you can catch the game online or on ETV Channel 10.
Photos by Dusty Butler
