Stevenson lines up a victory at Vernon Hills
The Stevenson boys basketball team shoots about 100 free throws in practice every day for exactly the type of situation that arose Friday at Vernon Hills.
The Patriots made 14 of 16 free throws to secure a comeback 56-51 victory.
After only attempting 1 free throw in the first half, Stevenson made a living at the line, particularly in the fourth quarter. Stevenson senior Jeff Arenson was 6 of 6 on free throws, and junior Nate Johnson was 6 of 7. Wood and Johnson finished with 15 and 14 points, respectively.
"We want the ball in their hands late because they're versatile and strong with the ball," Patriots coach Pat Ambrose said.
Stevenson fell behind 14-6 early on and played from behind the entire game. The Patriots (9-6) did close the quarter with 5 consecutive points. Vernon Hills (10-7) led for almost the whole game but could never pull away.
"They were shooting lights out and we tried to keep it within reach," Johnson said.
Vernon Hills senior guard Riaz Hoveydai scored a game-high 21 points, and his 3-pointer gave the Cougars a 43-36 advantage with 5:10 left in the fourth quarter. From there, Stevenson's defense clamped down and Vernon Hills struggled to find the basket.
"We finally got some stops," Ambrose said.
Vernon Hills was unable to generate second-chance opportunities, particularly in the second half. The Cougars rushed some shots down the stretch.
"We took a couple of quick 3s instead of attacking," Vernon Hills coach Matt McCarty said. "I'm not happy with the way we played in the fourth quarter. We've been in a lot of close games against good teams and we can't be satisfied with moral victories. We're looking to take the next step."
A key sequence for Stevenson came on an inbounds play in the final minute. With the ball at halfcourt and the Patriots leading 50-47, Arenson saw he could slip behind the defense. He quickly caught the attention of senior Henry Wood, who was about to inbound the ball.
"I gave Henry the head nod," Arenson said with a smile.
Wood's pass led Arenson perfectly, and he was fouled while attempting a layup. He made both free throws to give the Patriots a 52-47 lead.
Stevenson senior Grant Johnson scored 10 points. Wood contributed 8 points, including two baskets in the fourth quarter.
Hoveydai and junior Chris Morgan (16 points) each hit a trio of 3-pointers. Sophomore DaVaris Daniels scored 9 points and had 6 blocks and 6 steals.
"He had a lot of tips and deflections," McCarty said. "This was his best defensive game of the year."