Boys basketball: Big third quarter sends 5-0 Palatine past Libertyville

It was a third quarter to remember for Palatine. It was one to forget for Libertyville.

Libertyville led the host Pirates 29-28 at halftime, then the Pirates got red-hot from 3-point range in the third quarter connecting on 6-of-8.

Palatine outscored the Wildcats 25-7 and led 53-36 heading into the fourth quarter to spearheaded a 64-49 nonconference win Saturday night.

“We were very active defensively and more physical in the third quarter," said Palatine coach Eric Millstone. ”That is something we talked about at halftime.

"We also shot the 3 well in the quarter."

Robbie Wilcox, who didn't score in the first half, connected on 3 treys in the third quarter.

"I shot an air ball in the first half," said Wilcox. “I got in the groove in the third quarter and was more bouncy.”

Darrin Dick also made two 3's and Brady May connected on a shot from beyond the arc.

Tony Balanganayi had a pair of putback baskets and Abram Williams had a resounding dunk for the Pirates (5-0) in the pivotal third quarter.

Libertyville (1-3) never challenged in the fourth quarter.

Balanganayi, who is headed to the University of Illinois to play football, led the winners with 17 points, 13 rebounds and 3 assists.

"We got more physical in the third quarter," said Balanganayi. “Coach stressed that at halftime. I like the physical play."

Millstone praised Balanganayi.

"Tony is an elite athlete who has a great motor," said Millstone. “He thinks he is going to get every rebound.”

May scored 12 points, and Dick and Wilcox added 10 apiece.

The Pirates were 9-of-18 from beyond the arc.

Bryce Wegrzyn was the lone Libertyville player in double digits with 20 points and 11 rebounds.