It'll be a special night at Monticello High School this evening as the Sages host Illini Prairie Conference rival St. Joseph-Ogden.

The night will feature a tribute to late-teacher Natalie McDowell who passed away in a tragic car accident in November of 2021. There will be a 50/50 raffle that runners from St. Jude will be collecting for throughout the night and those who attend tonight's contest are encouraged to wear orange to honor McDowell.

When the basketball tips, the 16-4 Spartans will put its 4-1 Illini Prairie Conference mark on the line led by Division I prospect and junior Ty Pence. 

Ranked ninth in the latest 2A high school basketball polls, the Sages are 20-3 overall with a 4-1 mark in the Illini Prairie and are coming off consecutive losses for the first time this season. Monticello is also seeking victory number 300 for Coach Kevin Roy in his career at Monticello High School. This will be the third try for the Sages to get victory No. 300 for the 16th year man. 

Game time tonight is around 7 pm and can be heard on 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.