Evanston Wildkits Claim Regional Championship, Set Sights on Loyola Academy Sectional

Evanston Township High School’s (ETHS) boys basketball team secured a dominant 80-55 victory over Niles North on Friday, claiming the Class 4A Evanston Regional championship. Senior Timi Ogunsanya led the charge with a stellar performance, scoring 25 points, dishing out seven assists and showcasing a physicality that proved crucial in the win.

Ogunsanya Shines in Final Home Game

The victory improves the Wildkits’ record to 26-6. Ogunsanya, the team’s only senior starter, was a key factor in the team’s success, particularly after stepping up his game following the graduation of four senior starters. He was 4-of-5 from three-point range, and also contributed two steals and a blocked shot. He also drew 12 fouls, converting nine of those attempts.

“This was most definitely my best game,” said Ogunsanya after the game. “It feels great! I knew I had to play my hardest tonight because this was my last game here as a senior. I knew I had to deliver it my all so I didn’t have any regrets.”

Balanced Attack Powers Evanston

While Ogunsanya led the scoring, Evanston benefited from a balanced offensive attack. Ben Ojala added 18 points and six assists, Vito Rocca contributed 16 points and seven rebounds, and Dion Lane Jr. Chipped in with 10 points. The Wildkits’ offensive strategy, focused on driving to the basket, created opportunities at the free-throw line and opened up three-point shots.

Dominating Performance Against Niles North

Evanston limited Niles North to 37% shooting from the field, with only Collin Tobin, the Central Suburban League North Division “Player of the Year,” managing to score effectively for the Vikings with 21 points. Evanston shot an impressive 60% from the field (27-of-45) and connected on 10 of 22 three-point attempts.

Looking Ahead to the Loyola Academy Sectional

The Wildkits will now advance to the Loyola Academy Sectional next week. They are seeded No. 2 and will face Loyola Academy in a semifinal matchup on Wednesday at 7 p.m. The top-seeded DePaul Prep, last year’s Class 3A state champion, will play New Trier in the other semifinal on Tuesday.

Coach Ellis Praises Team’s Toughness and Unity

ETHS head coach Mike Ellis praised Ogunsanya’s leadership and the team’s overall toughness and unity. “What a special performance that was by Timi,” Ellis said. “He was definitely our leader tonight. He made hustle plays, he rebounded well and he blocked a couple of shots. I’m so glad he went out a winner as a senior in his last game on his home court.”

Ellis also emphasized the importance of the team’s mental fortitude and their ability to play cohesively. “The strength of our team is their belief in one another. Tonight, everybody took a turn (in the spotlight). I love how they play when they think I might have a good shot, but my brother next to me might have a great shot – so they give him the ball. You can see the love they play with together.”