If it seems like it has taken Fenwick forever to make it Downstate–it has.
The Friars won their first spot in the Elite Eight with a convincing 75-56 victory Tuesday night over Rich Central in the Hinsdale Central supersectional.
Fenwick, which lost to Thornton in last year’s supersectional, will meet Maine West in Friday’s 8:15 p.m. quarterfinal in Peoria.
“This is the first time in school history, and we just want to enjoy it right now,” said coach John Quinn, whose team will take a 28-2 record to Peoria. “It’s an opportunity to go and play in a state final. We’ve played in so many big games, and our team is battle-tested. Our goal is to get to the state final and see what happens.”
Fenwick’s tough schedule hardened the Friars, so a brief first-quarter challenge by Rich Central (22-8) was met. The Olympians’ perimeter game, including three-point goals by Darren Randle and B.J. Davis (16 points), gave them a 12-8 lead with 4 1/2 minutes left.
The Friars answered with a 10-0 run. The first eight came from Chris Williams, and six of them came off turnovers. Rich Central had a mini-run of three baskets to end the period, but Fenwick had established dominance.
“I guess we were concerned,” said Williams, whose 22 points were second only to teammate Corey Maggette’s 24. “I wouldn’t say it was a matter of time, but we knew we were going to pick up our game.”
Central found itself in foul trouble early, with Randle and Lance Williams picking up three fouls by the half. Eventually, they and Omar Williams fouled out. With less pressure on them, Fenwick’s guards found Maggette open. The 6-foot-6-inch Duke signee had just two points in the first period but was open low for several dunks in the final three periods.
After taking a 40-30 halftime lead, Fenwick opened the half with six quick points. Central got within single digits just two more times.
Said Williams: “It’s not over for us. We won’t celebrate too much. There are three more games. Our season just started.”
