Benton makes program history, returning to Class 4 Final 4

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KQTV) — The Benton Cardinals boys basketball team has accomplished something never before seen in the program’s history.

The Cardinals defeated St. Michael the Archangel, 65–43, in the Class 4 Quarterfinals Saturday night at North Kansas City High School.

With the win, Benton advances to the Class 4 State semifinals next week in Columbia, Mo. It marks the second straight season the Cardinals have reached the Final Four — the first time in program history the Benton boys have gone back‑to‑back.

"It just means the world to us," Benton senior Lincoln Goodwin said. "I mean, it feels good to make history and bring this type of joy to our city, so it feels real good."

St. Michael led 11–10 after the first quarter, but Benton stormed back in the second to take a 26–16 lead into halftime.

The Cardinals kept control throughout the third quarter, stretching the advantage to 45–26 heading into the fourth.

From there, Benton closed it out and punched its ticket back to state.

Senior Lincoln Goodwin finished with 25 points, including 16 in the second half. Junior Zaidyn Woodward added 10 points in the victory.

The Cardinals will face Clayton on Friday at 10 a.m. in the Class 4 state semifinals at Mizzou Arena in Columbia.