A quick 7-0 run in the third quarter by Bishop McNamara turned a 29-24 halftime deficit into a 31-29 lead, a lead the Fightin’ Irish would not relinquish as they defeated Monticello 58-53 for third place at the State Finals in Peoria Saturday night.

The Sages trailed 16-12 after the first quarter but used a better effort on the glass to take control at the break, however, the speed of Bishop McNamara was too much in the second half. Coach Kevin Roy says his team didn’t move the ball as well in the second half and missed some shots they usually make.

Calvin Fisher says being at the State Finals this weekend has been a real eye-opener. He says it’s a whole new level of competition.

Senior Isiah Florey led the Sages again at the State Finals with 19 points, a game high.

Luke Stokowski finished with 11 and Johnny Dawson added 10 points.

The Sages were outrebounded 32-31, giving up 16 offensive rebounds which resulted in 18 second chance points for the Fightin’ Irish.

Monticello won the points in the paint battle 40-36.

They committed 14 turnovers.

The Sages end the season 23-7 overall.

There will be a rally at Miller Gym Sunday afternoon at 2 pm at Miller Gym in Clinton High School for the boys basketball squad who made their first ever appearance at the state finals.

Next up for Monticello sports on 95.9 FM WEZC will be baseball and softball coverage this spring with the first game set for Monday at LeRoy.

Hear all the action, weather permitting at 4:30 pm on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.