Feeling the Payne

Schaumburg’s Cully Payne has already garnered headlines in papers across the state.

But the kid who became infamous for his early commitment to DePaul is now on his way to becoming famous for his play on the court.

Payne has been great all season, and Friday in Schaumburg was no different as he led the No. 18 Saxons to a 62-43 win over Mid-Suburban West rival Conant.

Payne, who signed with Alabama after decommitting from DePaul, transferred to Schaumburg from Burlington Central after his sophomore year. Now a senior, his confidence and comfort with his teammates is obvious.

“It’s just a lot easier this year,” Payne said. “I know what [Schaumburg coach Bob Williams] is looking for and he knows what I can do.”

Payne can do a lot on the court. He finished with 27 points, six rebounds, six steals and four assists.

“There were a lot of adjustments he had to go through last year because he wasn’t here the first two years,” Williams said. “Those adjustments are over.”

On several occasions Payne demonstrated the kind of passing ability that will enable him to succeed as a point guard in college.

“He’s just a great player,” Williams said. “He’s special in that not only does he have the great athletic ability, but he’s making our entire team a success with his mentality.”

The game was close until Payne kicked off a 12-0 burst to close the first half. He scored five in the run, which started just after the sizeable Conant crowd started the “overrated” chant whenever he touched the ball.

“Plenty of the Conant guys were talking at me,” Payne said. “People talk trash, but that just gets me more fired up.”

The run gave the Saxons a 30-20 advantage at the half. The second half was when Payne started to take things to the next level. He scored 19 in the second half, draining three three-pointers.

“I sensed that they were still in the game and I knew I had to turn it up a little bit,” Payne said. “I’ll do whatever it takes to win—shoot it or look for the assist.”

No Cougars player finished with a double-digit figure in scoring. Senior Tim Gilhooly led the way with nine points and Tony Rizzo and Cameron Leavitt each scored six.

“It was a matter of pride for us,” Williams said. “Conant talks a lot about their defense. Well we take pride in our defense as well. That set the tone in the game.”

Schaumburg’s defense forced Conant (5-2, 3-1 MSL West) into 23 turnovers. The Cougars were brutal at the free-throw line, shooting just 8 for 21.

Justin Swiercz scored 10 for the Saxons (9-0, 3-0) and Anthony Iannotti contributed six points and five rebounds.

“It’s a good feeling to still be undefeated,” Payne said. “We are going to soak it up tonight because tomorrow we have to play Elgin, and you never know what could happen.”