Illiana Christian boys’ basketball team is entering the new season with the goal of transforming last year’s 10–14 campaign into a more consistent performance in the Greater South Shore Conference.
According to recent reports, the Vikings concluded their previous season with a 4–3 record in league play. They demonstrated strong performances at home, achieving a 7–4 record and competing closely with several non-conference opponents. Despite a challenging 1–8 road record, the team ended the year on a positive note by securing victories over Lowell, Timothy Christian, Bowman Academy, Calumet New Tech, and Wheeler before being defeated by Hanover Central in the sectional.
This season’s roster features a combination of returning experience along with size and improved depth. Seniors Chase Thiel and Noah Sons lead the backcourt, supported by juniors Ty Van Drunen, Layton Topp, and Graeson Roozeboom. In the frontcourt, juniors Dane Van Essen, Aidan Drost, and 6-foot-10 center Colin O’Hara provide Illiana with a stronger interior presence. Sophomores Emmitt Wondaal and Grant Sitter add additional length and versatility to the team. This mix positions Illiana to enhance their defensive capabilities and achieve more consistent finishes in late-game situations.
The team expects that greater balance across positions, coupled with a deeper rotation, will aid in converting last year’s narrow losses into wins as the season progresses.
The next game for Illiana Christian is scheduled against Munster on Thursday, December 5th at 7 p.m.
