Redhawks wrap up DuPage Valley

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Watching Naperville Central star Drew Crawford play, it’s obvious he doesn’t think that the No. 20 Redhawks are a one-man show.

The 6-5 Northwestern recruit scored 27 and grabbed 13 rebounds in Naperville Central’s 62-57 overtime win against visiting Wheaton-Warrenville South Friday, but there was never a time in the game when he wasn’t looking for an open teammate.

“People think it’s just me but that’s not the case at all,” Crawford said. “I have tons of confidence in all my teammates. The way David Mallett has come on lately has been huge for the team.”

Mallet scored 17 and Nick Linne added 12 for Naperville Central, but it was Crawford the Redhawks (22-2, 12-0 DuPage Valley) turned to when they needed a big basket.

His beautiful drive and finger roll with 33 seconds to play in regulation would have been the game-winner if it wasn’t for the heroics of Tigers sophomore Reilly O’Toole, who nailed a jumper with four seconds to play to send the game into overtime.

Crawford won the game at the line in overtime. He scored eight points, six on free throws. Naperville Central clinched the conference title with the win.

It was a breakout game for O’Toole, who scored a game high 31 points. He made five three-pointers for WW South (15-9, 6-6).