Harrison Niego was in a familiar spot Friday night against Downers Grove North, after the Trojans had just reeled off 12 straight points to trim Lyons’ lead to 40-39 at the start of the final quarter.
The Lions needed to slow down the run, and following a timeout, Niego buried a 3-pointer that spurred an 8-0 streak for Lyons, which proceeded to hold on for a 65-56 victory in Downers Grove.
“Part of my role on the team is to hit big shots, and that is something that I really embrace,” said Niego, who had 15 of his game-high 30 points in the fourth quarter. “That is what the team needs me to do. I know that I got two great screens on that particular play, so it is really a team effort.
“They just entrust me to be the one that hits the shot. I embrace the role that these guys give me.”
Lyons (6-1, 2-0) won its sixth straight, after dropping its season opener against top-ranked Stevenson.
For their fifth win, the Lions defeated Naperville North 56-46 on Dec. 6. It was a unique opportunity, as the game was held at the United Center in Chicago prior to the Bulls’ win over Golden State.
“It is always fun playing in the place where the Bulls play,” said Danny O’Malley, who had two points, two steals and two assists against Naperville North. “”We always go there and watch them and look up to all the Bulls players, and being able to play on that court was very cool.
“Coach [Tom Sloan] made sure that we knew it was just another basketball game. It was very cool to play in the United Center, but we had to get the job done and win. I will remember that for the rest of my life, probably.”
It was the third time Lyons played at the United Center since the 2009-10 season. The Lions are undefeated there, with previous victories over Downers Grove South and Prospect.
“It is always exciting. Harrison [Niego] is the only one that had done it before,” said Lyons coach Tom Sloan. “Anytime we get a chance to play there, their eyes get really big. Our only fear about it is that they will be more worried about the environment than actually playing the game.
“Having been there a couple of times, we have been able to learn a little bit and get the guys comfortable pretty quickly.”
On Friday, Downers North (3-4, 0-2) trailed almost the whole game, but a put-back basket by Colin Kramper cut the deficit to 40-39. Myles Farley led the Trojans with 17 points, all in the second half. The senior guard knocked down five 3-pointers.
