Sarachek Tier I Qualifier Preview: #8 Hillel vs #9 Ida Crown
- Zachary Sicklick
- Mar 26
- 2 min read
Updated: Mar 28
A resurging #9 Ida Crown (ICJA) enters Sarachek hungry for redemption after last year’s heartbreaking overtime loss to YULA in the Tier 1 quarterfinals. Last year, ICJA entered as the #7 seed and was favored in their opening-round matchup before falling to YULA in the next round. With their first round victory last year, it was their first appearance in Tier 1 since 2011, making their run even more significant. This time, however, they find themselves in the unfamiliar role of the underdog, entering as the #9 seed and facing a formidable challenge right out of the gate.
Standing in their path is #8 Hillel, making their long-awaited return to the tournament for the first time since 2022. Back then, they were a distant #18 seed, far from Tier 1 contention. But this year tells a different story. With a strong 11-3 record in Yeshiva League play, Hillel proved themselves as a legitimate threat before suffering a razor-thin two-point defeat to North Shore in the quarterfinals. Their season, however, was defined by an impressive seven-game winning streak that included victories over powerhouse programs like Frisch and SAR. Leading the charge is all-star and 1,000 point scorer Eli Braha, a prolific scorer averaging over 20 points per game. His offensive firepower makes him one of the most dangerous players in the tournament.
After winning Regionals in Chicago, the Ida Crown Aces bring their championship pedigree to Sarachek where they square off against the Hillel Heat to open Thursday’s play. (Photo Credit: (ICJA Hoops)
On the other side, Ida Crown boasts an equally impressive campaign, finishing with an 18-5 record. They battled through three grueling rounds of the playoffs before ultimately falling by 20 points in their final matchup. At the helm is 1,000 point scorer Avi Okner, the battle-tested leader who brings invaluable Sarachek experience. Having been through the intensity of this tournament before, Okner understands what it takes to thrive on this stage and will look to guide his team past a tough opening-round opponent.
With a Tier 1 berth hanging in the balance, both teams enter this clash with something to prove. Hillel aims to cement their place among the tournament’s elite, while Ida Crown looks to overcome last year’s disappointment and make a deep run. Expect a fiercely competitive showdown between two hungry squads ready to leave it all on the court.
How to Watch:
Tip-off is at 10:00 AM at the Max Stern Athletics Center. You can also catch the game right here on the MacsLive YouTube Channel.
Comments