Glenbard West blew out another big time opponent last night. They are the favorite to win the IHSA Class 4A State title. This group has been this way before and won a title. A lot of this group won a State Title in 8th grade. Something folks do not know is they are playing for more than that. They are playing and trying to win a title for a fallen teammate. A friend who had been playing with these guys since 3rd grade is not with them for this possible magical run. Has anyone noticed the #32 jersey hanging on their bench? The players high five it when the starters are introduced.. His name was Brennan Kornak and he was a starter on that 8th grade State Title team. Well he took his life in 2019, a victim of severe depression. This team is very talented and hard enough to beat that 1-3-1 zone with their long athletes. With them having something greater to play for has ramped up their mission. Brennan Kornak would have been a member of this team, and a starter. He was a wing three point shooter and played the role that Bobby Durkin plays for the team right now. Hence he was more than just a body or player on the bench. He would have played a huge role on this big time team that has not lost to an Illinois team. They take the jersey to every game they play and hang it on the bench. So anyone who thinks this team is not used to winning, going on a deep playoff run, or winning big time games and titles, better think again.
There is a foundation set up in Brennan Kornak's name and raise money through a 3 on 3 tournament. They have a tag dedicated to him called BK32. If you need help dealing with depression, especially a teenager there are avenues to help. Suicide prevention hotline which is 1-800-273-8255. There is also the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention 188-333-AFSP(2377). Anyone can get help with any of those numbers. The human race does not want to lose anymore kids or teenagers to depression, which happened a lot during the COVID19 pandemic. For folks following this Glenbard West team, just remember their team is not fully whole as it could have been. Brennan Kornak didn't get the chance to finish his high school career out playing with his boys. Don't let that opportunity pass you up kids. He's always in the memory of the players, coaching staff, fans, and the Glen Ellyn community. Other teams in the state, just remember this Glenbard West team could have been better than they already are. There's a picture of him with that 8th grade title team. He's number 32 in the picture. For the Glenbard West basketball team, I would suggest carrying this young man's memory with you wherever you go. I'm sure you will. Rest up Brennan.
Wow, what a beautiful way to remember Brennan! My son, Erik Barillari (GWHS 2014), took his life just two weeks before Brennan did. Suicide is an epidemic, and seeing kids being educated about it, and memorializing their friend, is so very heartening <3.
Hi I’m Hailey Kornak, Brennan’s sister. Brennan actually died 4/1/19. Not 2020. He died before the pandemic.
Tim, thank you and you 100% captured what this team is all about.
This was a great article pops 🙌🏾