The Lincoln-Way Central Knights saw their postseason run come to a courageous end, falling 50–40 to the Brother Rice Crusaders in the IHSA Class 4A Regional Championship.
The game was played on Feb. 27 on the Knights’ home floor.
Lincoln-Way Central was outscored 18–9 in the first quarter, forcing the Knights to play from behind from the outset. They responded with energy in the second, winning the quarter 15–10 to cut the deficit to 28–24 at halftime and shift the momentum. The third quarter proved costly. The Knights managed just six points while Brother Rice added nine, stretching the lead and limiting comeback opportunities. A 10-point fourth quarter showed fight, but Brother Rice matched the push to secure the win.
Lincoln‑Way Central closed its season at 21–11, a .656 winning percentage that reflects one of the program’s most consistent and competitive campaigns in recent years. The Knights finished 10–6 in the SouthWest Suburban Conference, good for fourth place in one of the state’s toughest leagues.
A defining trait of this group was its performance away from home. The Knights went 11–4 on the road, one of the best marks in the conference, and added a 3–1 record at neutral sites, showing poise in tournament and showcase environments. Their 7–6 home record was solid, but the team’s identity sharpened when traveling: disciplined defense, controlled possessions, and the ability to grind out close wins.
Lincoln‑Way Central thanked “the seniors that helped set the standard of LWC Knights basketball.”
