By Jeremy Gasca ‘25

The week of Nov. 25-30 was a memorable one for the Crusader basketball team, as they competed in the Vandemerkt Thanksgiving Tournament. Over the course of four games, the Crusaders faced Thornwood, Zion-Benton, Joliet West, and fellow Chicago Catholic League opponent  Fenwick. The team dominated throughout the tournament, winning each game by double digits. Senior Marcos Gonzales stood out the most.

As a co-captain of the team, Marcos is taking on the responsibility of leading the Crusaders, and so far this season, is succeeding with flying colors. Marcos scored 18 points against Thornwood, 12 points against Zion-Benton, 21 points against Joliet West, and an outstanding 26 points in the championship game against Fenwick. This lifted his case for being named the “Tournament MVP.”

Fellow co-captain Caden Workman, said, “Getting off to a great start was a big goal of ours. The past two years have been successful and we got both of those years started off with winning this tournament, so the team’s hope remains high after another great start.”

The two have high expectations for this team after such a dominant performance in the tournament.

The team looks to their captains often and are trusting in their ability, which affects the rest of the team as well. If the captains are lifted and confident, the rest of the team is as well.

Senior Zach Mikrut said, “Marcos was outstanding all tournament long. He truly is a great leader and will help us be successful as the season goes on. The team looks to him when we are in need, and so far he has delivered day in and day out.”

Gonzales’s influence on this team has been like no other, and as expectations are high within the program, he has even higher expectations for himself.

After the tournament, Gonzales said, “Playing in this tournament meant a lot because this was the third and final time playing it in. Winning it for the third straight year was something to be proud of for sure. I could not have won the MVP of the tournament without my teammates so it was a cool achievement. This is just the first of many accolades that are on my list of goals.”

This tournament is a great jumpstart for the team, but a tough schedule is ahead. The Crusaders are a part of a top conference in the state, and they definitely have their work cut out for them.

Photo Credits: Marcos Gonzales