Hillcrest moved one step closer to its 16th consecutive SICA Central championship with a 55-42 victory over Thornton Fractional North on Friday night in Country Club Hills.
The Hawks (16-3, 7-0) were unable to get into an offensive rhythm early but still managed to build a 26-20 halftime lead.
“T.F. North came out to play,” said Hillcrest guard Maurice Acker, who scored 13 points. “In the first half they did a great job defensively, but in the second half we ran our 1-4 low offense, which enabled me to penetrate and dish the ball.”
Acker handed out six assists overall, five in the second half to help the Hawks to gain and maintain a double-digit advantage.
One of his main targets was Jerel McNeal. The junior guard scored a game-high 17 points, nine in the second half.
“This was a big game for both teams,” McNeal said. “Even though we still have three games left in the conference, having a two-game advantage is big this time in the season.”
Douglas Leday led T.F. North (12-5, 5-2) with 12 points.
