By Craig Lynch
Sam Schultz was a driving force in Oswego East High School’s 56-36 dismantling of Rockford Auburn in the first round of the 16-team Hinsdale Central Holiday Classic Monday afternoon. He came off the bench to play 10 minutes and scored 15 points. He pulled down five rebounds for the Wolf Pack, 8-3 overall.
“I am recovering from a meniscus injury, so I am not starting,” said the 6-8 senior.
Along with 6-7 Will Wolf, the pair dominated the inside. Oswego East extended a 23-18 halftime lead and cruised through the second half. Oswego East advanced to a second round game against Stevenson, a 51-31 victor over Glenbrook North Wednesday, at 5:15 p.m. Thursday, Dec. 26.
“When the other team doesn’t block out, we are able to get the rebounds,” said Schultz.
Schultz would like to play college basketball.
“I think my injury has slowed down recruiting,” he said. “I have had a couple of Division II offers, but I am hoping to pick up some other offers.”
Earlier in the day St. Charles East pulled away from Lincoln-Way Central and won, 64-44. The score was tied at 34 in the third quarter. The Saints, 6-3, closed the third quarter on a 9-0 run and never looked back.
“I think our defense and pressure wore them down,” said Saints head coach Pat Woods.
Chase Monkmeyer led a balanced attack and scored 13 points, including nine in the first quarter.
“Defense is so important to us,” said Monkmeyer, a 6-4 senior. “I also think our experienced seniors helped us get through some rough spots.”
The Saints will meet Homewood-Flossmoor Thursday, Dec. 26, at 3:45 p.m. in a second round game.