Boys Basketball: Niles West runs into staunch Waukegan defense

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Updated: March 24, 2012 8:28AM

Some nights, given the level of competition, a team has to settle for a consolation victory.

Friday was one such night for Niles West. The Wolves hung tough all the way but could never get over the hump and lost 70-64 to a host Waukegan team that had everything to play for.

With the win, Waukegan won the Central Suburban South title with a 9-1 record and was to play at CSL North champ Glenbook North Wednesday in the league’s championship game. In 2009, when those teams met in the same spot, Glenbrook North prevailed, but Waukegan went on to finish second in the IHSA state tournament.

The Bulldogs (15-8, 9-1) have won nine straight since a loss to Lyons right after Christmas break.

Devonte Taylor scored 20 points to lead Waukegan. Jordan Johnson, a talented junior point guard, added 19 points and Quinton Davis scored 17.

Niles West finished 2-8 in the division, and was to play at Deerfield on Tuesday in its regular-season finale. The Wolves open up Class 4A regional play on Monday, against Amundsen, then would take on New Trier the next night in the regional semis if successful.

Against Waukegan, Niles West enjoyed bits of success throughout.

“I thought the effort was good,” said Niles West coach Bob Williams, whose team struggled against Waukegan’s high-octane defensive pressure. Wolves point guard Ahmed Gibson was sidelined with an injury. “We were a little short-handed, and against Waukegan, you need good point-guard play.

“Every time we had a run, they matched it. We would get close, and then they would go on a run so we could never get over the hump.”

Leading Niles West scorers was guard Joe Younan with 24 points. David McCoy added 11.

“I’m excited about the tournament,” Williams said. “We’re close to being there, but we just can’t get over the hump. That’s the frustrating part, but I am optimistic.”

Waukegan was up 30-24 at halftime and 52-48 after three quarters. Waukegan went on a 12-3 spurt to start the final period and led 64-51. Niles West had an 11-1 run that featured buckets by Alek Biser, Younan and McCoy and pulled to within 68-62 with a minute to go.