Rival game results count greater than the average regular-season game. Counts a great deal more than just any game. Some fans pay attention only to the rivalry games.
Thus, the eye-popping results made a lasting impression in the Friday, Jan. 7 rival varsity boys basketball game in Elgin: Visiting Larkin 87, host Elgin, 17, in the crosstown mismatch. The teams are at the opposite end of the Upstate Eight Conference basketball standings. First place Larkin, at the start of the week was 16-1 overall and 7-0 in the Upstate Eight. Elgin, in last place, was 3-11 and 0-7.
East Aurora boys were in third place, 9-4 overall and 4-1 in the 10-team Upstate Eight, and defeated visiting rival West Aurora, of the Southwest Suburban Conference, 67-61. West Aurora dropped to 9-7 overall and 5-2 in the Southwest Suburban Prairie West. West Aurora is second place in the six-team conference to strong Oswego East, 17-1 overall and 7-0 in conference.
“We played hard against (rival) West Aurora,” said Rick Robinson, head coach at his alma mater East Aurora. Our quickness was the difference. We have had several guys playing well. We look to have four players in double-figure scoring) each game. This should get a victory in most games.
“Our upcoming games against (second place) Bartlett and the 7-3 center and (first-place) Larkin, a team of quick players, will be big tests.”
Larkin defeated host East Aurora recently by seven points. “We missed too many lay-ups and free throws,” Robinson said.
West Aurora head coach Brian Johnson, who has extolled the virtues of his players’ team mentality, made comments on the East-West rivalry game: “East played a fast and physical game. They took us out of our comfort zone on the perimeter and forced us into numerous turnovers.”
Johnson’s evaluation of his team included: “Different players have stepped up at different times. (6-4 sophomore guard) Josh Pickett’s development has been a joy to watch. (6-5 senior forward) Chris Stinson has grown throughout the season; (6-7 first-year senior) Ty Rogers has improved in all aspects of his game and will continue to grow. (6-3 freshman) Terrence Smith will continue to get better.
“I enjoy coaching this group. They are great kids that are kind and caring for others. They show up every day and work hard.”
The weekend ahead will include the MLK games Saturday and Monday. See the schedule on page 11. Top teams are hosts in the cases of Wheaton Warrenville South and Burlington Central.
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