Undefeated Benedictine men's basketball hopeful for NCAA tournament

Dionne Miller Image
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Undefeated Benedictine men's basketball looking ahead to NCAA tournament
Led by double-double senior Luke Johnson, Division 3 Benedictine University is one of the nation's two unbeaten teams at any level with a school record of 27-0.

LISLE, Ill. (WLS) -- Led by double-double senior Luke Johnson, Division 3 Benedictine University is one of the nation's two unbeaten teams at any level with a school record of 27-0.

"No one really believed we could be early on and there were a few of us that were telling people even six months ago that we were going to be very good this year, come out and watch, we have a good chance to do something special," Johnson said.

"At our level he's a difference-maker, you know he's 6-foot-9 with a 7-foot wingspan," said Keith Bunkenburg, Eagles head coach.

ABC7's Dionne Miller: "And he looks a little like Thor with that hair!"

Bunkenburg: "Well his muscles aren't as big... which I would like to see!"

But he hasn't needed muscle, surrounded by four starters who also average in double figures.

"One of the things that can break a talented team is worrying about your own stats, worrying about your playing time, worrying about what you're doing. And that's one of the things that every single person on this team - no one cares," said John Dodson, Eagles guard.

"I know we're Division 3 but I think we could really make some big moves," said Tim Reamer, Eagles forward.

The second ranked Eagles lead the nation in defense, but it's their 19 assists per game that is a true testament to the character of this team.

"National championship is rare no matter what level it's at, so I think it would be everything to a lot of these guys," Johnson said.

This program has never advanced beyond the Elite Eight, but they believe the unselfishness that has led to their perfect season can and will change that this March.