The Monticello Sages overcame a nine-point second half deficit to down Rantoul on the road in the Okaw Valley Conference opener for both squads.

Zach Fisher poured in a game high 28 points as only five players scored for the Sages. Fisher also grabbed five boards and drained six of eight threes as Monticello shot over 50% for the second straight game.

Noah Freemon added 12 points, four boards and four assists. Ryne Bundy added 10 points and five boards off the bench for Monticello.

The Sages improve to 8-3, and win their first Okaw Valley Conference game in the new look Okaw.

Rantoul drops to 4-12 and 0-1 in their inaugural year in the Okaw.

After shooting 60% from the floor in the first half, the Eagles shot just 35% in the second half.

CJ Bunner led the way for Rantoul with 17 points. Kevin Williams and Marellian Gibson added 12 apiece.