By Nick Niego ‘23

The Brother Rice varsity basketball team played two highly competitive games this past weekend. The games were nail biters. Brother Rice fell to Loyola 50-47 on Friday night, but they bounced back Saturday against Rolling Meadows winning 64-59.

On a lively Friday night, Brother Rice matched up with Loyola Academy on 99th and Pulaski. Both teams were 6-1 in conference play heading into the game so this game was crucial for the Catholic League rankings.

Senior Ryan Kenney said, “It was a key game for us because we are trying to give ourselves a chance at winning the league.”

The theme of the game was breast cancer awareness. Each year the Brother Rice and Loyola game is filled with pink. The environment was electric with a packed gym and pink everywhere.

It was a tough game for Brother Rice, but they had a chance to bounce back as they played a top 10 team, Rolling Meadows, the next day.

The Brother Rice and Rolling Meadows game was a highly anticipated game with talented players on both teams. The gym was packed with one of the best environments seen all year.

Senior Ryan Gierhahn said, “Playing in a game with a packed gym and great environment like this is one of the best feelings in the world.”

The game was a back and forth battle. Both teams were ranked top 10 in the state, and each was trying to get a statement win. Brother Rice entered the 4th quarter trailing but quickly jumped out to a lead. Towards the end of the 4th quarter, Brother Rice hit back to back threes and the momentum favored Rice.

They were able to complete the comeback. Senior Ahmad Henderson said, “This was a big win for us to get our confidence back; we can play with anyone as long as we continue to fight and play as a team.”