It all seemed so familiar for Richwoods in Monday’s Class 3A Ottawa Super-Sectional.
Again, the Knights’ playoff foe was a state-ranked opponent. Again, free throws were either their best friend or their worst enemy. Again, Richwoods had to fend off a fourth-quarter comeback following a strong third frame.
What wasn’t familiar for Class 3A No. 1 Harvey Thornton was losing to a Central Illinois team. At least until they met Richwoods for the second time this season, with the Knights toppling one of Chicago’s best 58-52 and clinching a state berth for the first time since 2010.