Matthias Rudolph had a double-double, and Monticello downed Pleasant Plains 64-58 in season-opening high school boys' basketball non-conference action Tuesday night at Pleasant Plains High School. 

Rudolph scored 28 points and grabbed 11 rebounds, helping Monticello start fast in its season-opener.

Ayden McCool added 21 points and grabbed seven boards for the Sages.

Rudolph's driving layup with under a minute left in the first quarter stretched the Monticello early lead to 14-8. 

The Sages opened a 41-25 lead halfway through the third quarter - it's biggest of the night. 

The Monticello defense held the Cardinals to 40 percent shooting and 35 percent from three. The Sages held the rebounding advantage 32-26, and Monticello shot 55 percent from the floor.

Plains would trim the deficit to 56-50 with just under 2:30 to play, but after a Rudolph three was off the mark, Jake Motsegood grabbed back-to-back offensive rebounds and found McCool for an open three at the top of the key to put the Sages up 59-50, effectively sealing the win.

The Cardinals were led by Owen Johnson's 21 points and nine rebounds. Grady Grisham scored 20 points, and Wolfgang Cooperider added 12 points. 

Pleasant Plains starts the year 0-1. 

Monticello is 1-0. They continue their early tour of the Sangamo Conference next Tuesday when they visit Riverton. Game time is 7 pm. Hear the action 95.9 FM WEZC and online at dewittdailynews.com.

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