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Friday, April 19, 2024
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Roland Griffin steps up for West Aurora

By  Michael O’Brien
   
SHARE Roland Griffin steps up for West Aurora

PONTIAC, Ill. — Roland Griffin didn’t live up to his usual high standard of play Monday in West Aurora’s opening round victory over Lockport, but he more than made up for it on Tuesday.

The Illinois State recruit was a dominant force in the Blackhawks’ 68-59 win over Oak Park-River Forest in the quarterfinals of the Pontiac Holiday Tournament. He scored 24 points, grabbed 18 rebounds and dished out four assists.

“He has tremendous potential,” said West Aurora coach Gordie Kerkman.

West Aurora opened the game with an 18-0 run. The Huskies countered with a 17-0 run. The Blackhawks responded and led 34-23 at the half. Oak Park never cut the lead to less than five after that.

Marquis Howard scored nine for the Blackhawks and freshman Cameron Donatlan showed he’s an underclassman to watch. The 6-0 guard is confident and athletic. He scored nine points and grabbed five rebounds.

Dallis Flowers scored 20 for the Huskies and Breshawn Wilkerson added eight.

West Aurora will face the winner of the Simeon-Joliet West game in the semifinals on Wednesday.

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