For the first time in Mt. Vernon's history, the Mt. Vernon High School (MVHS) boys basketball team won the Class 4A State Championship. The Marauders secured the title at Gainbridge Fieldhouse on Saturday, March 28, defeating Crown Point High School.

In the state championship matchup, the Marauders trailed during the first half but rallied in the second to claim a thrilling 52–50 victory. They finished the season with an impressive 28–3 record, the most wins in MVHS history.

The team’s motto, “Stay Steady,” reflected their focus and determination throughout the season, as they remained committed to improving with each game.

This victory also marked a historic milestone for Hancock County, as Mt. Vernon became the first team from the county not only to win a state championship but also to advance to the title game. The Mt. Vernon Community School Corporation (MVCSC) is proud of the team and their dedication throughout the season.

Senior Brady Webber was recognized during the state finals as the recipient of the Arthur L. Trester Mental Attitude Award, which honors excellence both on and off the court. Webber has been actively involved in numerous clubs and activities, including Student Government, Best Buddies, Marauder Mentors, National Honor Society, the Hancock County Youth Leadership Team, track and field, and soccer. He is also a Lilly Endowment Scholarship finalist, a School Board Scholar, and a recipient of the Richard P. Jennings Indiana Basketball Hall of Fame Scholarship.

In recognition of this honor, the Indiana Pacers and Indiana Fever awarded a $1,000 scholarship to MVHS’s general scholarship fund in Webber’s name.

Additionally, MVCSC is proud to announce that senior Luke Ertel was selected as the 2026 Indiana Mr. Basketball. This prestigious award is given annually to one senior in the state and is voted on by media members and coaches from the Indiana Basketball Coaches Association. Ertel received 207 of the 230 total votes.

During the season, Ertel averaged 24.5 points, 6.6 assists, and 9.9 rebounds per game. He also made 98 three-pointers, the highest total among all IHSAA players this year. He has received numerous additional accolades, including Indiana Gatorade Player of the Year and the State Farm Slam Dunk High School 3-Point contest winner.

The team was formally recognized at the April MVCSC Board of Trustees meeting, where Superintendent Jack Parker and Head Coach Joe Bradburn highlighted the team’s remarkable season, historic achievement, and the journey it took to reach that milestone.