Sparks' start sparks Grayslake North

There was no doubt in the minds of the Grayslake North Knights boys basketball team that a good start would get them right back into the win column.

David Sparks provided the initial spark for the Knights, scoring all 6 of his points in the first couple of minutes.

Grayslake North extended the them, jumping out to a 9-0 lead before the visiting Woodstock North found the basket.

From there, the Knights galloped past the Thunder 53-31 in a Fox Valley Fox Division game in Grayslake on Friday night.

“Our team was able to get a lead which helped us take control of them,” said Sparks, who also pulled down 9 rebounds and had a couple of blocks in two in a half quarters. “We all had a good game and played a big part in it.

“The Grayslake Central game was a big loss. We came back and wanted this a lot against (Woodstock North). We did well at the beginning and executed our game plan.”

The Knights (11-4, 3-1) had a disappointing 63-49 loss to district rival Grayslake Central on Tuesday and didn't want to have another letdown. That showed in Grayslake North's strong effort.

“There's been a couple of times we've played teams with a couple of wins and came out flat,” Grayslake North coach Todd Grunloh said. “We did a great job but didn't do it to perfection.

“We're motivated with this win now, and if we beat Crystal Lake Central next Wednesday, then we can be tied for first place. This was a message to take care of business and not take any opponent likely, no matter how many wins they have.”

The Knights led from start to finish and held a 14-2 advantage after the opening quarter. They led 25-9 by halftime as Woodstock North (1-14, 0-2) struggled.

Teddy Ludwick led the Knights with a game-high 15 points and hit a couple of treys helping his cause. But Ludwick has changed his game more this year going to the basket then taking shots beyond the arc.

“We run a lot of sets where my teammates try to find me open,” said Ludwick, who has led the team in 3-pointers. “This year, I've changed things to be more aggressive and go to the hoop more. So I can get to the free throw line a lot more.”

Zach Devore and Bobby Rakoncay led the Thunder with 6 points apiece.