Conant seniors too much for Palatine

Friday night was a good night for Conant and senior players Christian Sotos, Kevin Chua, Kevin Reddington, Taylor Peterson, Garett Gatz, Andrew Spangler and Nate Rummel.

All seven Cougars played significant minutes, celebrating senior night with big contributions in a 52-35 Mid-Suburban West win over visiting Palatine.

As usual, Conant played relentless pressure defense, holding the Pirates to 17 points through three quarters.

"We talk a lot on defense," said Reddington, who scored 6 points. "We get out of each other's way and are able to step into the passing lanes."

Gatz led the way on offense with a team-high 11 points, while Peterson tallied 10, including a big first-quarter dunk.

Sotos finished with 6 points and 6 rebounds, Spangler had 6 points and Rummel 4.

Conant (14-10, 6-4) held a healthy lead through most of the game, but opened things up midway through the third quarter.

First London Dokubo nailed a long 3, then Peterson had a steal and 3-point play to give the Cougars a commanding 30-16 advantage.

Palatine (9-16, 3-7) got some life in the fourth quarter when junior Tommy Johlie (12 points) sank 4 consecutive 3-pointers to bring the Pirates within 10.

But Gatz quickly got 5 straight points of his own to stem the tide.

Dokubo had 8 points for Conant. Tommy Galvan pitched in with 6 for Palatine.