The Pius XI 1976 Boys' Basketball team, under head Coach Joe Buneta, won their third state basketball title and the only back-to-back boys' basketball titles in school history. The team compiled 18 wins and 7 losses in total, finishing fourth in the conference with a 9-7 record.

Lacking the height and bench strength of the previous year, it was a frustrating regular season with many close losses and a void of team identity. Just before tournament time Coach Buneta aptly pointed out that it's not about what team does well in the regular season, but rather which team peaks at the right time. He believed this group was ready to peak. The team took those words of wisdom to heart and began their postseason march with a fresh attitude and outlook.

Gaining steady improvement and confidence heading into the state tournament helped the Popes play a nearly flawless first round state basketball game, easily defeating highly ranked (17-3) Madison Edgewood, 83-71. In the semi-final game, Pius XI took on a powerful (18-2) Racine St. Catherine's, having lost to them twice in conference play; this time, Pius XI delivered a commanding 53-41 victory. This set the stage for an epic rematch with archival Marquette, an undefeated squad and the top-ranked team in the state, who had also beat Pius XI twice during the regular season. Down by 9 points at halftime in front of a record-setting arena crowd, a second state title did not look probable for Pius XI. Coach Buneta and assistant Rollie Kauss decided to try a 1-3-1 trap press to turn the tide. The surprise defense worked, causing Marquette to lose their poise, providing the Popes the opening they needed to claw back into the lead. Pius XI won 43-42, netting their second consecutive state title and winning one of the biggest upsets in WISAA tournament history. Joe Chrnelich, Tim Cullen and Jim Ingerson earned All-Tournament Team Honors.

Team Members Include: Bruce Beste, Joe Brellenthin, Joe Chrnelich, Tim Cullen, Mark Hanneken, Jim Ingerson, Jim Kokott, John Krusick, Bill Lynch, Randy Olewinski, Jeff Tarkowski, Brian Ueblacker, Head Coach-Joe Buneta, Asst. Coaches- Rollie Kauss, Jim Rehm, Tom Diciaula, Ted Jatczak (manager), Tom Schreiner (statistician), Tim (Doc) Clements (trainer).

PIUS XI HALL OF FAME

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