Friday night’s contest between the North Sanpete Hawks and Emery Spartans began with an exciting back and forth battle. The first quarter included five lead changes and four ties as both teams tried to gain an advantage. It was Emery that was able to end the quarter on top with a 22-18 lead.
Kyler Wilstead was a man on a mission in the first half, recording 17 points to go along with a number of rebounds. The Spartans grabbed a quick four points to open the second quarter when Wilstead made a layup. Brax Jensen then stole the ensuing inbound pass to help the Spartans add another score. Emery would control the second quarter to increase its lead. Brodie Tuttle hit a three at the end of the half to make it 41-31 with the Spartans out in front.
It was all Spartans in the second half as they cruised to an 85-63 victory. Tuttle had a game-high 29 points. Wilstead ended the night with 19 points as Kyson Stilson continued his impressive season with another 18 points. Jensen had a few more highlight reel passes and added 10 points in the game.
Emery (13-6, 5-5 Region 15) will close out region play this coming week with a road game against Grand (13-6, 4-6 Region 15) on Wednesday and a home game with San Juan (13-7, 5-5 Region 15) on Friday. The games will greatly impact the standings in Region 15 as Emery and San Juan are currently tied and one game ahead of Grand. The difference of potential seeding for Emery can be from playing a number one to number four seeded team in the opening round of state on Feb. 16. San Juan outlasted Emery 105-100 earlier in the season, so it is bound to be an intriguing week for the Spartans.
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- Photos by Dusty Butler
