Boys Basketball: Oak Lawn's Teamwork Overwhelms St. Laurence

The Hot Read: Oak Lawn’s teamwork was again the big story in the Spartans’ win over St. Laurence, as great team defense and unselfish passing made all the difference. The Spartans exploded to a 22-6 first-quarter advantage. Anthony Johnson led Oak Lawn in scoring with 17 points, while the rebounding of Leon Reed, Colin Altenburg and Johnson gave the Spartans many second- and third-chance shots.

Patch’s MVP:  Johnson’s scoring and his presence on defense and the boards helped Oak Lawn reach the .500 mark.

Key Stats: Johnson scored 10 of his 17 points in the fourth quarter to help put away the Vikings. 

Oak Lawn’s Leaders: Anthony Johnson (17 points), Callen Moore (11 points, including three three-pointers), Leon Reed (9 points), Jon Matthews (9 points) and Colin Altenburg (7 points).

St. Laurence’s Leaders: Steve Rockingham (11 points).

Quotable: Anthony Johnson, on the Spartans’ effort: “We played all four quarters and it showed with the ‘W.’ We played tough, got the momentum going and never let up. Our neighborhood rival, Richards, is coming in Friday and we are ready for a tough game. That’s what it’s all about.”

Oak Lawn coach Scott Atkins: “I give all the credit to the teamwork. They have been playing very unselfish lately and that is why they look good on the court. Improving to 10-10 is their reward.”

St. Laurence coach Mark Sevedge: “We practice all week and worked hard yesterday but we just played bad.”

Team Records: Oak Lawn 10-10. St. Laurence 4-15

What’s Next: Oak Lawn will host Richards on Friday.