The Marshall Commandos came to Champaign with one mission… and they FINISHED it.
Marshall is officially the 2026 IHSA Boys Basketball Class 1A State Champion, defeating Goreville 52-44 and bringing home their first state title since 2008.
Advertisement
After 35 years away from the state tournament in Champaign, the Commandos didn’t just show up, they DOMINATED.
Led by standout performances all weekend, Marshall set the tone early. In the semifinals, they crushed Eastland 66-38 behind 20 points from Quinton Gibson and a lockdown defense that forced turnovers and held their opponent to just 28% shooting.
But the championship game? That’s where legends are made. After trailing late into the third quarter, Marshall flipped the switch. Sophomore Darrin Laye Jr. stepped up in a BIG way, sparking a comeback fueled by relentless defense and clutch plays.
The Commandos made HISTORY, setting a Class 1A state record with 18 steals and closing the game on a jaw-dropping 21-3 run to secure the title. From the “Hoop Dreams” era to now… the legacy continues. CPS just added another champion to the books.
The Marshall Commandos basketball program in Chicago has built its identity on toughness, discipline, and resilience over the years. Competing in one of the most competitive high school sports environments in Illinois, the team has steadily grown from a respected local contender into a program known for producing disciplined athletes and memorable postseason runs. Through coaching changes, rebuilding seasons, and standout individual talents, the Commandos have stayed committed to a strong defensive mindset and team-first culture. Their recent 1A State Championship victory marks a defining moment in the program’s history, reflecting years of development, hard work, and community support that helped shape them into state champions and a source of pride for Chicago.
