Former Benet Star Brooke Schramek Returns as Assistant Coach

Schramek, who finished her playing career at Wisconsin in 2024, didn't expect to coach but is now making an impact on the Benet girls basketball team.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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When former Benet basketball star Brooke Schramek finished her playing career at Wisconsin in 2024, she thought she was done with the sport and ready to pursue a career in interior design. However, Benet coach Joe Kilbride convinced Schramek to join his staff as an assistant coach last summer, and she has brought valuable experience and an infectious positivity to the team.

Why it matters

Schramek's return to Benet as an assistant coach is a feel-good story that highlights the impact a former player can have on a high school program. Her connection to the Benet culture and her relationship with coach Kilbride have helped her quickly connect with the current players, who have embraced her guidance and expertise.

The details

Schramek, 24, has managed to balance her job schedule with her coaching duties, attending most practices and games. She brings valuable experience as a former Big Ten player and program legend at Benet, and her ability to practice with the scout team has been crucial during a recent stretch of injuries. Schramek's dynamic with senior center Emma Briggs, who she sees as a younger version of herself, has been especially helpful in developing Briggs' all-around game.

  • Schramek finished her playing career at Wisconsin in 2024.
  • Kilbride called Schramek last summer about the assistant coaching position.
  • Schramek joined Kilbride's staff for the 2025-26 season.

The players

Brooke Schramek

A former Benet basketball star who finished her playing career at Wisconsin in 2024 and is now serving as an assistant coach for the Benet girls basketball team.

Joe Kilbride

The head coach of the Benet girls basketball team who convinced Schramek to join his staff as an assistant coach.

Emma Briggs

A senior center for the Benet girls basketball team who has a similar playing style and personality to Schramek's when she was in high school.

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What they’re saying

“I honestly never thought I would coach. I did basketball my entire life. I was ready to try something new. I wanted to see if something else was out there for me.”

— Brooke Schramek (chicagotribune.com)

“The girls love her. You've got me and Bunks, two grumpy old men, and we've got Brooke. So if you're a high school girl, you're delighted to see Brooke coming around.”

— Joe Kilbride, Head Coach (chicagotribune.com)

“She's very personable, so when she first came in, we clicked really quick. It didn't take us long to become friends, and I trust her a lot.”

— Emma Briggs, Senior Center (chicagotribune.com)

What’s next

The Benet girls basketball team, ranked No. 5 in the state and the No. 1 seed in the Class 4A East Aurora Sectional, will continue their postseason run with Schramek's guidance as an assistant coach.

The takeaway

Schramek's return to Benet as an assistant coach is a heartwarming story that shows the lasting impact a former player can have on a high school program. Her connection to the Benet culture and her ability to relate to the current players have made her a valuable addition to the coaching staff, and her presence has brought a renewed sense of joy and excitement to the team.