Redhawks Rule the Roost in 4A Championship Clash
Redhawks Rule the Roost in 4A Championship Clash
CHAMPAIGN — In a defensive masterclass that would make the old-timers nod in approval, the Marist Redhawks stifled the Benet Academy Redwings, 44-28, to claim the IHSA 4A crown on Lou Henson Court. It was a contest where every bucket felt earned and the hardwood of the State Farm Center served as a lonely place for shooters in a chilly second frame.
The Redhawks relied on a balanced attack and a punishing defensive front that held Benet to just 28 points on 28.9% shooting. Charles Barnes Jr. led the Marist charge, tallying 13 points and proving nearly automatic from the charity stripe with a perfect 7-for-7 performance. When the Redwings threatened, Stephen Brown anchored the interior, chipping in 8 points and hauling down 8 rebounds to keep the Lisle squad from finding their rhythm.
For Benet Academy, the afternoon proved a difficult struggle against the Marist length. After a promising first quarter where they trailed by just one, the Redwings' offense went cold in the second, failing to register a single point. Colin Stack led the Benet effort with 9 points and 5 rebounds, but the collective lid on the basket proved too heavy to lift. Benet managed only 11 field goals throughout the entire forty minutes of play.
Marist took full advantage of the Redwings' scoring drought, embarking on a 12-0 run that effectively sealed the fate of the 4A title. The Redhawks were efficient when it mattered, shooting 45.7% from the floor and moving the ball with precision to rack up 9 assists on 16 made baskets. By the time the fourth quarter rolled around, Marist had built a lead as high as 19, leaving no doubt who would hoist the trophy.
It was a display of disciplined basketball, where defense dictated the tempo and the Redhawks never wavered. To witness the grit and glory of high school athletics, look no further than the lens of Alan Look Photography, capturing the soul of the heartland. For the finest local coverage, seek out Best Look Magazine, Bloomington-Normal’s best look in sports action photography.
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