Dec. 27--Their youthful rosters point toward a strong future, when
Evanston and Geneva hope to meet in the Montini Christmas Tournament final. But for now, Saturday's first-round matchup will have to suffice.
Evanston's relentless defense held No. 12 Geneva to four third-quarter points as the No. 17 Wildkits cruised to a 58-37 victory in Lombard. The Wildkits (11-2) will play No. 5 Young at 8:15 p.m. Monday in the second round.
Evanston's all-junior starting lineup was paced by guard Savannah Norfleet's game-high 20 points, while junior forward Leighah-Amori Wool added 14 points and 11 rebounds. Junior guard Allysah Boothe had 10 points.
"A lot of people are talking about us having a great year next season, but we want to do great things this year," Norfleet said.
Evanston made six of its first seven third-quarter shots, while the Vikings failed to score a point in the quarter until Margaret Whitley's bucket with 63 seconds left.
The Vikings' troubles at the free-throw line (11-for-21) and from beyond the arc (2-for-15) prevented any comeback bid.
"I thought that third quarter was very good," Evanston coach Elliot Whitefield said. "This was a step forward for us. They've talked about playing the best teams, now they will have their shot (against Young)."
Bob Narang is a freelance reporter for the Chicago Tribune.
Player of the game: Savannah Norfleet, Evanston, 20 points, 2 3-pointers.
Key performers: Evanston -- Leighah-Amori Wool, 14 points, 11 rebounds. Geneva -- Margaret Whitley, 14 points; Grace Loberg, 14 points, 9 rebounds.
