Warriors maximize opportunity to play at UC; 67-49 Win
Wheaton Academy 67, Aurora Christian 49

Game #19 • Tuesday, January 23, 2006 • United Center - Chicago, IL • PSL • 2:30 PM
Archived Broadcast • Statistics • Daily Herald • Beacon News

The Wheaton Academy Warriors took full advantage of an early school dismissal and opportunity to play in the United Center on Tuesday afternoon. Wheaton earned an impressive 67-49 win against the only other undefeated Private School League team, Aurora Christian (12-5).

The Eagles came out running and gunning in the first quarter, gaining a 19-8 lead, but in the second quarter, the Warriors turned things around thanks to a string of Benjamin Euler three's, and a number of John Albaugh buckets, including a jump shot at the buzzer to conclude the second quarter.

The second half was probably one of the best performances the team has put on all year. The Warriors ran their offense effectively and with ease, opening up many scoring opportunities, particularly for Matt Jones who completed two big three point plays and went a perfect 6-for-6 from the free throw line. Jared Cochrum also stepped up, grabbing 4 rebounds and making a three point play as well. WA quickly built a six point lead, and then extended that lead in to double digits.

Wheaton Academy's patient offense prompted Joel Malmquist to sink three 3-pointers in the fourth quarter to seal the win for the Warriors, one that is vital to winning the PSL.

Joel Malmquist scored 17 points (4/6 three pointers), and Benjamin Euler scored 22 for the Warriors and had 6 assists. John Albaugh added 8 points and 5 assists. Matt Jones tallied 12 points. As a team, WA commited only 11 turnovers and hit a season best 15 of 17 free throws (88%). The team improves to 9-10 on the season, and is now the only undefeated Private School League team. Their next game is Friday night at Luther South.