Michael O’Brien’s notebook: Jan. 11, 2017

It was quite a night in the Red-West. I headed over to Farragut to see the Admirals play North Lawndale. Things didn’t go well. I don’t think I’m going to get into it here after all. Bottom line is that I felt less than welcome and I’ve decided there isn’t any point in dealing with that anymore. There is always another game down the road…

And what a game that was. Orr beat Westinghouse thanks to a fantastic blocked dunk attempt by Spartans junior Raekwon Drake. Read all about it and check out the terrific photo by Worsom Robinson that captures the moment.

One good thing is coming out of my drama at Farragut. I’m hearing that this story made an impact, that Chicago Public Schools is looking into repairing the bleachers at Farragut. That would be great.

Ronnie Fields was watching the game at Farragut. Mark Aguirre was watching at Westinghouse (that’s him in the picture above). The Red-West is special.

Wednesday’s top games

North Lawndale 64, Farragut 60: The game was tied at the half. Carlos Hines scored 25 and Steven Ross had 12 points. Always big to get a win at Farragut.

Von Steuben 58, Prosser 53: Ralphy Cruz sealed the victory with a dunk.

Young 67, Marshall 57: I was surprised when I saw this score, thought maybe the game wasn’t happening since Dolphins coach Tyrone Slaughter was at Westinghouse. Turns out he received a pair of technicals in Michigan last week, so had to sit out the game. Young survived. It’s always difficult to win at the home of the Commandos. Lucas Williamson scored 22 and Javon Freeman had 15.

Downers Grove South 60, Morton 59: Battle of the Mustangs. Denis Alibegovic led Downers with 26 and TJ Clifford added 20 points and 11 boards. Detalian Brown, a promising player that I haven’t heard much about this year, scored 19 for Morton and Vinny Belcaster added 13 points and six assists.