Marshall High School Boys Basketball Team Wins State Championship

Celebration honors West Side team's historic victory in Class 1A title game

Apr. 2, 2026 at 10:38pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a basketball game, with the players' figures broken down into colorful, angular shapes and the court and crowd dissolving into a dynamic, multi-perspective composition.The Marshall High School boys basketball team's historic state championship victory represents a triumph for the West Side community and the Chicago Public League.Chicago Today

The boys' basketball team at John Marshall Metropolitan High School won the Illinois High School Association Class 1A state championship last month, the first time a Chicago Public League school has captured the title in the state's smallest class. The team was honored with a celebration at the East Garfield Park school on Thursday, where players, coaches, school officials, and local dignitaries gathered to commemorate the historic achievement.

Why it matters

Marshall's victory is significant for the West Side community, as the team's success represents a source of pride and inspiration for the neighborhood. The championship also marks a milestone for the Chicago Public League, which has struggled to compete in the state's smaller classifications due to the league's automatic bid to the larger Class AA tournament.

The details

The Marshall Commandos came from 10 points down to defeat Goreville 52-44 at the State Farm Center in Champaign, securing the school's first basketball championship since 2008. Head coach Darrin Laye credited the players' hard work and dedication for the victory, while senior Quinton Gibson said the team's strong bond as 'a family' motivated them throughout the season.

  • Marshall won the IHSA Class 1A state title last month.
  • The celebration was held on Thursday at the school.

The players

Darrin Laye

Head coach of the boys' basketball team at John Marshall Metropolitan High School.

Quinton Gibson

A senior on the Marshall High School basketball team.

Amari Cornell

A senior on the Marshall High School basketball team.

Antonio Archer

A junior on the Marshall High School basketball team.

Brandon Johnson

The Mayor of Chicago.

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What they’re saying

“This championship wasn't just for us, it was for the West Side of Chicago.”

— Darrin Laye, Head coach

“When that buzzer rang it was a great feeling.”

— Quinton Gibson, Senior

“We're a family. We all got each other. They're like my brothers.”

— Quinton Gibson, Senior

“It's like I can breathe now. We can breathe now.”

— Darrin Laye, Head coach

“Come back better and do what we did this year, but harder.”

— Amari Cornell, Senior

What’s next

The Marshall High School boys basketball team will look to defend their state championship title next season.

The takeaway

Marshall's historic victory in the Class 1A state championship game represents a significant achievement for the West Side community and the Chicago Public League, showcasing the dedication and talent of the players and coaches who have worked tirelessly to bring this championship trophy home.