Together, Schaumburg produces a victory

Before every game, after every timeout and before a return to action in the game, Schaumburg breaks the huddle by saying "together."

As a result of living up to that mantra, the Saxons were able to come up with a 61-43 victory over host Hoffman Estates on Friday in Mid-Suburban West boys basketball.

"I think that when we play together as a team, we're capble of playing with anyone," said Schaumburg coach Wade Heisler. "Everybody on the team has to realize that teamwork is essential."

That teamworked was key in propelling the Saxons (3-4, 1-1) from an 11-point early second-quarter deficit with a 7-4 tear in the third quarter that give the visitors for good.

Heze Trotter had 8 of his game-high 19 points in the third, and his 3 in the second half of the quarter broke it open as Schaumburg produced an 11-2 run.

The Schaumburg surge was also fueled by Michael Hodges, who scored 6 of his 10 points during that stretch as the Saxons led 44-31 after three.

Hoffman Estates (3-4, 0-2) got no closer than 9 the rest of the way.

"I thought defensively, we really helped each other out there," Heisler said. "As we get more into the season, effort like that could be a major plus."

Trotter, now in his second year of varsity ball, likes the togetherness he's seeing in the program.

"My guys picked me up out there," he said. "I try to return the favor, especially if things aren't going well for me out there on the court, by being both vocal and supportive.

"Through it all, it's teamwork that wins games."

Hoffman Estates was led in scoring by junior Adrian Punzalan (13 points) and James Allen (12).

For Hawks coach Luke Yanule, the outcome was a reminder of the youth and inexperience his team is trying to overcome.

"We have to learn from this," Yanule said. "We have to be able to match our effort and intensity with skill."