The IHSA state finals weekend was a memorable one for the Chicago area, as it saw a diverse range of champions emerge from the suburbs, Catholic League, and Public League. This came as a welcome relief after a year of disappointment, as the Chicago area had been shut out of winning any state titles in the previous year, marking the second time in three years that this had happened.
However, this year was different, with both Class 3A and Class 4A titles being swept by Chicago area teams. In addition, the area also brought home the Class 2A state championship. This success was not only significant in terms of the number of titles won, but also in terms of the range of schools that achieved victory.
While there have been some prominent small school programs that have won state titles over the past 25 years, such as Leo, Hales Franciscan, and Seton, the big school titles have been elusive. In fact, the only two big school titles in recent history were won by Mount Carmel in 1985 and St. Joseph in 2015. However, both of these schools have since closed their doors, leaving a void in the Chicago area basketball landscape.
Fortunately, DePaul Prep has emerged as a new powerhouse in the city, propping up the league like no other program before them. Led by standout player Gianni Cobb, who had a terrific senior year, DePaul Prep claimed their first state championship. Cobb was not only recognized as a Sun-Times all-area performer, but he also earned a spot on the IBCA Class 4A all-state team. As the dynamic point guard for the Vikings, Cobb served as the energizer for the team, propelling them to victory.
Another player who made waves in the Chicago area basketball scene was Ciaravino, from Mount Carmel. Ciaravino's rise as a prospect during the offseason was remarkable, as he showcased his skills and led his team to a record-breaking season. His impressive performance earned him the title of Catholic League Player of the Year, and his success on the court generated a buzz around his potential recruitment to Northwestern University. Beyond the accolades and numbers, Ciaravino's impact on the local basketball community is profound, as he has become a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes in the area.
The IHSA state finals weekend was a reflection of the resilience and talent that exists within the Chicago area basketball community. It showcased the diversity and depth of basketball programs in the region, as well as the ability of these teams to come together and compete at the highest level. With the emergence of teams like DePaul Prep and the individual achievements of players like Gianni Cobb and Ciaravino, the future looks bright for basketball in the Chicago area. As we look back on this weekend of triumph and excitement, we can't help but be filled with anticipation for what the future holds for these talented athletes and the sport they love.
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