Thompson's finger injury a concern to Kerkman

The best thing that happened to Tyler Thompson this season was being named the Most Valuable Player at Rock Island's tournament this weekend.

The worst thing that may have happened this season to the senior forward/center on the West Aurora boys basketball team is a broken finger.

On Monday during practice, one of Thompson's teammates attempted to steal the ball from him during a scrimmage. Coach Gordie Kerkman said the three-year varsity player was in pain, but the finger didn't appear deformed.

"We'll wait and see what the X-Ray says," Kerkman said.

Prior to Thompson's mishap at practice, he, along with Corbin Spearman and Marquis Stewart, were playing well and are a big reason why the Blackhawks are off to a 4-0 start after winning the tournament in the Quad Cities.

With the exception of a few inconsistencies with turnovers and rebounds here and there, Kerkman approves of what is going on with his team so far.

"I liked what I saw," Kerkman said. "They played well together. Hopefully, we can build off this."

This was the fourth time in five years West Aurora won the title.

Stewart (18 points) and Spearman (16 points) both posted career highs against Julian.

Defense was also huge, as the most points the Blackhawks allowed in four games was 55 against Dunbar, the best team West Aurora played against in the tournament, according to Kerkman.

Other undefeated boys teams: The Blackhawks aren't the only area team to win a tournament and are undefeated at this point in the season.

Batavia is 3-0 after winning its own tournament and Aurora Central Catholic is 5-0 after winning Sandwich's tournament.

Marmion is also undefeated at 3-0 under new coach Rashon Burno. The Cadets won their own tournament.

"So far so good," Burno. "The kids are responding well. Having three home games obviously helped confidence and that comfort level at the gym you practice in. But we still have a long way to go."