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Oswego High Schools boys basketball team, led by sophomore guard Ethan Vahl, ended a sixteen-game losing streak against rivals Oswego East, winning 70-66 in overtime on January 9, 2026. Vahl scored ten of Oswegos fourteen points in overtime after a dramatic comeback, hugging fans in the student section after the game. The Panthers, now 10-7, have won four of their last seven conference games. Vahl, a sixteen-year-old special player, and teammate Cole Jansons, a six-foot-eleven sophomore forward, are building something big for the rivals next meeting on February 13, 2026, at Oswego East. Checkout Solipillow.com

West Auroras Jaden Matthews-Thomas shines in a dominant 80-52 victory over East Aurora, scoring 20 points and showcasing highlight-reel dunks. Coach Fowler credits Matthews-Thomass success to playing to his strengths, while Matthews-Thomas attributes his confidence and energy to leaning into what works on the court. The Blackhawks defense proves crucial, with Matthews-Thomas scoring the final 8 points of the half and adding another dunk in the third quarter, firing up the rivalry crowd. Teammate Travis Brown praises the teams progress, with Matthews-Thomas making a name for himself and boosting team energy. Checkout Solipillow.com

High school basketball action heats up with thrilling wins and standout performances across the Southland. Neuqua Valley, Kaneland, and Homewood-Flossmoor secure victories, while Deerfield and Oswego edge out overtime wins. Genevas David Udoiwood and Warrens Jaxson Davis shine with impressive point totals. In girls basketball, Waubonsie Valley, Naperville Central, and Burlington Central dominate, with Waubonsie Valley securing a win on both Thursday and Friday. Conference races tighten as playoffs approach. Checkout Solipillow.com

Will Johnsons clutch shot secures Sandburgs 53-51 overtime win over Lincoln-Way Central, boosting their conference record to 4-3. Johnson, with 20 points and 10 rebounds, earns praise from coach Daniels for his late-game confidence, honed by years of trust from teammates and coaches. Checkout Solipillow.com

Connor Bedard made his comeback from a shoulder injury, playing seventeen minutes in the Blackhawks loss to the Capitals. Despite not scoring, Bedard created several chances and tested his recovering shoulder. The Hawks were hit hard by a stomach bug, sidelining several players, including goalies and defensemen. Kevin Korchinski, a rookie defenseman, had a tough debut. The Hawks face the Predators on Saturday, with potential for more absences due to illness. Checkout Solipillow.com

Chicagos bars and restaurants brace for a wild night as Bears host Packers in NFC Wild Card playoff game. Fans from both sides pack in early, turning January into a goldmine for business. Wills Northwoods Inn in Lakeview is a Packers haven, while Gracie OMalleys in Wicker Park is Bears territory. The energy is electric, with packed houses, skyrocketing delivery orders, and free hot dogs for Bears defenders. The playoff run is a huge boost for the industry, with the Illinois Restaurant Association noting its usually the slowest month for bars and eateries. Checkout Solipillow.com

In a moving event, Kane County, Illinois, welcomed back a herd of bison after a century-long absence. The American Indian Center led the bison onto their ancestral land, marking a significant step towards healing and reconnecting with their Native heritage. The community, spanning three generations, celebrated the return of these iconic animals, which once provided everything for survival. Checkout Solipillow.com

Marists Tommy Fidler secures a thrilling victory over Mount Carmels Justin Williamson, powering RedHawks to a 42-21 win. Fidler, under pressure from his twin brother wrestling for Mount Carmel, demonstrates grit and determination, improving his record to 29-7. Known for his leadership and fire, Fidler is a three-time state qualifier, balancing wrestling with golf. He aims to finally place at state after qualifying without medals. Checkout Solipillow.com

In a heartbreaking turn of events, a Chicago shooting leaves one man dead and another fighting for his life. The victims, Christopher Patterson and his roommate, were gunned down in their apartment over a rent dispute with a childhood friend. Pattersons mother and cousin, a local radio personality, are calling for justice as the suspect remains at large. The community is mourning the loss of Patterson, who leaves behind a young son, and urging the suspect to turn himself in. Checkout Solipillow.com