The Libertyville boys basketball team has emerged as one of the best teams in the North Suburban Conference behind the stellar play of senior guard Drew Peterson.
But the Wildcats are also a deep team, and they showed just how strong of a team they can be in an 80-54 win against Mundelein on Friday in Libertyville.
Peterson led all scorers with 23 points on 6-for-10 3-point shooting, but it was the work of those around him that ensured the wide margin of victory.
“We have a full team,” said senior Chase Eyre, who finished with 13 points. “That’s one thing we are proud of this year. We have a long list of guys who can provide sparks.”
Eyre, a 6-foot-4 wing player, has been one of those sparks on both ends of the floor. He’s an example of the role players who are a main reason the Wildcats (10-5, 4-1 North Suburban) have emerged as one of the top teams in Lake County. When the 6-8 Peterson draws double teams — as he did against the Mustangs — his Libertyville teammates can spread the floor.
With Libertyville holding a 22-point lead in the fourth quarter, Peterson found Eyre near the corner with a one-handed darting pass through a tight window. Eyre drained the open 3-pointer.
“He’s usually the next guy in line to step up when I have an off night or they are doubling,” Peterson said of Eyre. “I can always trust him to make the shot and get to the rim.”
Eyre worked on his shot to be ready for this season. After team workouts, he would find a side basket to put up some extra shots. He practiced his mid-range jumper and 3-point shot in preparation for what he knew would be a pivotal season with the Wildcats.
“He’s done a great job in chemistry with Drew,” first-year Libertyville coach Brian Zyrkowski said. “Chase knows where Drew is going and how to make himself available.”
Libertyville’s win against Mundelein was the team’s ninth in its last 11 games. Junior forward Travis Clark added 12 points while senior guard Brandon Simberg made three of his four 3-pointers for nine points.
Jon J. Kerr is a freelance reporter for Pioneer Press.
Twitter @Pioneer_Press
