Illiana Christian defeated Whiting 52–35 in a varsity boys basketball nonconference matchup.
The game took place Jan. 6, 2026, at Whiting High School.
Illiana Christian took control after a measured first half and steadily widened the margin behind disciplined execution on both ends of the floor. The Vikings carried an 18–12 lead into halftime before increasing the pace in the third quarter, outscoring Whiting 16–12 to build separation. Illiana Christian continued to apply pressure in the fourth, closing the game with an 18-point quarter while limiting Whiting’s scoring chances.
The Vikings relied on balanced contributions across the rotation. Senior guard Chase Thiel and junior guards Ty Van Drunen and Layton Topp provided steady ball handling and perimeter pressure, while Dane Van Essen and Graeson Roozeboom contributed versatility on the wing. In the frontcourt, Colin O’Hara anchored the interior presence, creating advantages on the glass, with Grant Sitter and Aidan Drost adding size and physicality in the paint. Emmitt Wondaal and Noah Sons helped maintain tempo and defensive intensity as Illiana Christian controlled possessions late.
Illiana Christian will return to action Jan. 16 when it travels to face Andrean in a 7 p.m. matchup.
The previous meeting between Illiana Christian and Andrean came Jan. 14, when Illiana Christian fell 64–63 at home.
