Will Cook County News

By Claude Martinez. Updated on 2/28/25 at 12:01 a.m.

The Oak Forest Bengals and the Hillcrest Hawks battled through a tight first half at the Country Club Hills 3A Regional semifinals on February 26, 2025.

The first quarter ended with both teams tied at 12.

The second quarter began with two free throws by the Hawks, followed by an explosive start for the Bengals as Will Englund drained a three-pointer.

Hillcrest quickly responded as Maximilian Carmicle spun through the paint for two points. Jaylen West and Carmicle then split a pair of free throws each.

On a blocked pass, Gary Manso scooped up the ball and laid it in for Oak Forest.

After two quick drives, Carmicle grabbed a rebound for Hillcrest, pushing their lead to 20-17.

Neiko LeFlore returned for Oak Forest, stopping his drive to dish the ball to Xavier Haynes for an easy two.

The Bengals then left Jamir Ratliff wide open for a long two-pointer. Howlett followed up with a crucial play, cleaning up Ratliff’s missed three-point attempt.

At halftime, Hillcrest led 24-19.

In the third quarter, Oak Forest came within three points of tying the game, but Hillcrest shifted gears offensively, taking control from that point on.

FINAL: Hillcrest 63, Oak Forest 50.

For the Bengals, Matt Anderson led the way with 26 points.

For the Hawks, junior point guard Jamir Ratliff scored 22 points and was named the WCCN Player of the Game for his standout performance and leadership.

Ratliff reflected on his individual effort, the team’s game plan, and also highlighted the contributions of Maximilian Carmicle.

Special thank you to the IHSA, Dr. Maurice Young (Hillcrest athletic director), Don Houston (Hillcrest head coach) and TJ Cobbs (Oak forest head coach).

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