Introduction to the IHSA Class 1A/2A Basketball State Finals
The Illinois High School Association (IHSA) Class 1A and 2A basketball state finals are set to take place, featuring some of the most talented teams and players in the state. One of the most notable storylines is the emergence of Hope Academy, led by coach Ronnie Fields, a former Farragut star who is considered one of the most exciting basketball players of all time.
Hope Academy’s Journey to the State Finals
Fields’ coaching career is off to a notable start, as he has taken Hope Academy to the state finals in his first two seasons. The Eagles lost in the Class 1A semifinals last year and had their eyes on a return trip to Champaign all season. Juniors Tyjuan Hunter and Jaiden Simmons are back from last year’s team. Hunter, Hope’s point guard, played through a pulled groin muscle in the semifinals last season, and Simmons, a 6-4 forward, is a skilled rebounder and shot blocker.
Key Players to Watch
Hunter is a leader who has the will to never give up and leads the team in the biggest moments. Simmons’ quickness in his first jump is something that sets him apart, and he saves the team on the back end on a lot of plays.
Hope Academy faces Effingham’s St. Anthony (29-4) in the semifinals Thursday morning. The Bulldogs beat Lincoln-Way East and Teutopolis and knocked off Mounds Meridian in the supersectionals.
Class 2A State Finals Preview
In Class 2A, Christ the King and Dyett have played rugged schedules this season and are fully capable of winning their semifinal matchups and meeting in the Class 2A state title game. Dyett (25-7) will have its hands full with Peoria Manual (23-12) and star Dietrich Richardson. The Bradley recruit is one of the best players in the state. Christ the King (26-9), which plays Belleville Althoff (30-5) in the first 2A semifinal, is one of the most athletic teams at the state finals. Seniors Aaron McClure and Darien Green are strong, high-scoring, high-flying players.
Potential All-Chicago Title Game
Dyett isn’t reliant on a star player, with five senior starters: Jaden McKinnon, Rickey Coleman, Aramis Brown, Mikai Harris, and Devon Shelton. Dyett’s path to Champaign in the last several years is impressive, and coach Jamaal Gill led the Eagles through the ranks of the entire Public League relegation system. Christ the King coach Troy Caldwell said, "We aren’t here to celebrate being in Champaign. We are here to win the 2A state championship."
Conclusion
The IHSA Class 1A and 2A basketball state finals promise to be exciting, with talented teams and players competing for the top prize. Hope Academy, led by coach Ronnie Fields, is looking to make a deep run in Class 1A, while Christ the King and Dyett are potential contenders in Class 2A.
FAQs
Q: Who is coaching Hope Academy?
A: Ronnie Fields, a former Farragut star, is coaching Hope Academy.
Q: Which teams are competing in the Class 1A semifinals?
A: Hope Academy, Effingham’s St. Anthony, Eastland, and Peoria Christian are competing in the Class 1A semifinals.
Q: Who are the top players to watch in Class 2A?
A: Dietrich Richardson, Aaron McClure, and Darien Green are some of the top players to watch in Class 2A.
Q: What is the potential matchup for the Class 2A state title game?
A: Christ the King and Dyett have the potential to meet in the Class 2A state title game, making it an all-Chicago matchup.
