Immaculate Conception Student Earns Second in State Free Throw Contest

Andrew Wiley, a sixth grader, advanced through local rounds to compete at the state level.

Apr. 18, 2026 at 10:35am

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A fragmented, geometric painting depicting the motion and energy of a basketball free throw, with the ball, hoop, and player's form broken down into sharp, colorful shapes.A cubist interpretation of the free throw shot that earned a young athlete second place in the state competition.Bloomington Today

Andrew Wiley, a sixth-grade student at Immaculate Conception School, earned second place at the annual Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship for 11-year-olds held on April 12 in Bloomington, Illinois. Wiley advanced to the state competition after winning three consecutive local rounds in January, February, and March, and he made 21 of 25 free throws at the state event, tying for second place before winning a shoot-off to claim the runner-up spot.

Why it matters

The Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship is a prestigious annual competition that showcases the basketball skills of young athletes across the state. Wiley's impressive performance not only reflects his dedication to the sport but also highlights the strong athletic program and community support at Immaculate Conception School.

The details

In the state competition, Wiley made 21 of 25 free throws, tying him for second place. This led to a shoot-off, where Wiley sank all five of his free throws. In the second shoot-off, he made all five shots again, securing the second-place finish.

  • Wiley won three consecutive local rounds in January, February, and March to advance to the state competition.
  • The state competition was held on April 12 in Bloomington, Illinois.

The players

Andrew Wiley

A sixth-grade student at Immaculate Conception School who earned second place in the annual Knights of Columbus Free Throw Championship for 11-year-olds.

Immaculate Conception School

A private Catholic school that Andrew Wiley attends and where he received encouragement and support from his classmates and teachers.

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What they’re saying

“I'd like to thank my classmates and teachers at Immaculate Conception school for their encouragement and support, the Morris Hospital YMCA, and my parents for their support.”

— Andrew Wiley, Student

The takeaway

Wiley's impressive performance at the state free throw competition showcases the strong athletic program and community support at Immaculate Conception School, inspiring other young athletes to pursue their basketball dreams.