Benet Academy to celebrate state championship with pep rally

History has been made at Benet Academy!

The boys’ varsity basketball team has captured the school’s first state championship, defeating the Warren Wildkits in a thrilling 55-54 victory on Saturday night.

The championship game, held at the State Farm Arena in Champaign, was a battle from start to finish. Benet’s tenacious defense and balanced offense were key factors in their historic run.

“It took everyone to bring this state championship home ---- players, coaches, and the entire Benet family. We had a championship student section before we had a state champion basketball team,” said head coach Gene Heidkamp. “The Benet basketball program has over 50 years of tradition and legacy. To bring home the school’s first-ever state basketball title is truly special.”

The road to the championship was no easy feat. The Redwings overcame fierce competition throughout the state tournament, knocking off top-ranked teams in the sectional, super-sectional and semi-finals.

Their resilience and teamwork carried them to the final, where they delivered the most memorable win in school history.

“This victory is about more than just basketball — it’s about perseverance, teamwork, and the power of believing in each other,” said athletic director Scott Lawler. “Our entire school is celebrating this incredible accomplishment.”

Students, parents, alumni and fans traveled in droves to the championship game, turning the State Farm Arena into a sea of red and white. Chants of “We are BA!” echoed throughout the night, creating an unforgettable atmosphere and fueling the team’s determination to bring home the trophy.

A celebratory pep rally will take place at 8:40 a.m. Thursday, March 20, in St. Ronald gymnasium.

Benet Academy, founded in 1837 and located in Lisle, is an independent Catholic, college preparatory high school in the Benedictine tradition. Its mission is to provide a disciplined educational environment that fosters the on-going religious, intellectual and social development of its students.