One Way

On Tuesday night the Spartans were looking to snap a three game losing streak. The Spartans found themselves back at Historic Briggs Gymnasium after what seemed like an eternity. The only thing standing between the boys and a win was the top ranked team in the Tri-Metro Conference, the Blake Bears. Led by 6'4 junior Kebu Johnson, the Bears had been beating everybody in their way, even upsetting highly favored DeLaSalle on their home court. The Spartans would not be scared however and they would rise to the occasion against one of their most hated rivals.

The game began immediately with a high pace which allowed the Spartans to jump to an early lead. Eighth grader Dalante "the Chosen One" Peyton could not be stopped.The beast within him was unleashed and he drained three after three after three to finish the first half tying his career high 19 points (he would finish the night with 27 points and 10 boards).The kid became a man before our very eyes and just a reminder, he's only in eighth grade and he owned one of the best teams in the league. However Peyton's phenomenal play was not the only news in the first half, as the Spartans were seen playing smarter basketball than they had been in a while, regardless of being short of key forward Connor Allen who is out with a knee injury. The guys shared the ball and did not force passes. They kept moving the ball until they found the open shot and this strategy worked perfectly. The high powered Blake offense however held their own in the shooting game and was able to go into the half with a lead.

The second half saw the Spartans slowly narrow the Bear lead with exceptional team play. The Spartans persevered and never gave up until they were able to find a way back in. The determination was there like never before and it payed off when junior captain Spencer "Spegly" Egly was able to work his way down the court and lay in the tying shot. 49-49. The team was fired up and continued to play with more passion and tenacity that they had since the first couple games of the season.

Unfortunately though the Bears proved to be mentally tough as well and closed it out. The Blake Bears won the game but as cheesy as it sounds the Spartans got a moral victory. They played hard and fought until the end. The team has been re-energized and is now on the right track playing the way they should have been for a while. The loss will sting but there is no shame. The next few weeks look bright for the Spartans who can only continue to improve.

The next stop for the boys will be against Brooklyn Center High school on Friday night. It smells like its time for a W....

GO SPARTANS!