It wasn’t an efficient performance but the Monticello Sages did just enough to hold off the Prairie Central Hawks Friday night, 52-39 in the first game of the Illini Prairie Conference from Fairbury.

The Sages shot just 37-percent from the field, making just 15 field goals, committing 11 turnovers and handed out just six assists.

The Hawks however, committed 17 turnovers, also shooting 37-percent with 15 made field goals and hung with Monticello on the boards, getting edged out 33-32.

But the Hawks committed 25 fouls and Monticello mad 19-of-33 free throws.

The Sages were led by Luke Stokowski’s 15 points. Calvin Fisher added 14 points and nine rebounds. Ben SIngleton chipped in with 11 points and five rebounds.

Jake Bachtold led the Hawks with 12 points and Billy Printz added 11 points and eight rebounds. Noah Lewallen added six points and six rebounds.

The Sages improve to 11-1 overall and are 1-0 in the Illini Prairie Conference. They’ll host Meridian Saturday night. Hear the game live on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.