The Naperville North Huskies boys basketball team traveled across town to face off against the Wheaton North Falcons in the IHSA Regional Semifinals.

The Naperville North Huskies (15-15, 2-7) defeated the Wheaton North Falcons (16-16, 5-9) by a final score of 57-51.

The Huskies were on fire from deep to start off the game, led by senior Riley Thompson. Although they were strong on the offensive end throughout the game, they struggled early on defense, giving up open three-point shots.  The Huskies trailed most of the second half, but, with under two minutes left in the fourth quarter, the team came up with key defensive stops led by junior Grant Johnson who had important blocks down the stretch. With 42 seconds left, the Huskies scored a wide-open layup to secure a three point lead. 

Thompson led the way with 21 points for the Huskies. He credits their success to a willingness to win.

“Pure tenacity. We really wanted to win and we had a not give up attitude,” Thompson said.

Huskies Head Coach Gene Nolan thinks the team has gotten better by working hard on the court. He contributes their success against the Falcons to the team’s chemistry.

“We’ve got a great group of kids. We’ve gotten better all year and improved all year,” Nolan said. “They’ve always focused on getting better, focused on each other, so it was a good win tonight.”

The Huskies will continue in the IHSA Playoffs as they face off against Naperville Central at their place at 7 pm on Friday, Mar. 6.