The Latin boys basketball team defeated Chicago Bulls College Prep 70-54 to win the 3A regional semifinal on Wednesday.

Latin jumped out to a 11-point lead at halftime and closed the game out with strong rebounding and three-point shots.

“I believe the effort of our defense throughout the game was crucial, especially in the second quarter, because it really helped us pull away and extend the lead,” senior captain Thomas McLaughlin said.

This game marked the Romans’ 20th win of the season. The team now has an impressive 71.4% win percentage this year after capturing its first victory in the state tournament. The Romans ended the regular season with a strong 19-8 record and were co-champions of the Independent School League.

Senior guard Connor Kernan said, “We have played very well down the stretch this season, and I think the reason we keep winning is because of our togetherness on and off the court.”

The team will face off against Little Village Lawndale High School in the 3A regional final this Friday at 7 p.m. at Little Village’s home court.

“I loved the team-oriented mindset and the effort we showed today,” Thomas said. “We are looking forward to our game on Friday, and hopefully many of our classmates will come to support.”