UPDATE: In a stunning performance at the Team Rose Shootout, Joe Niego of Brother Rice dominated the court with a career-high 22 points, leading his team to a decisive 51-38 victory over Lincoln-Way East on December 14, 2025. This urgent win comes just days after a disappointing loss, and Niego’s aggressive play was the catalyst his team desperately needed.
Niego, a 6-foot-7 senior forward, exploded onto the scene early, scoring 13 points in the first quarter alone. “Nobody could guard me,” Niego confidently stated after the game, reflecting on his renewed energy following Friday’s slow start against St. Ignatius. His performance not only ignited his own game but also set the tone for the entire Brother Rice team, which surged to a commanding 16-2 lead.
Junior guard Aiden Henderson contributed six points, while Lincoln-Way East’s junior guard KaiJay Brown led his team with nine points. The Griffins struggled to cope with Niego’s relentless offense, as he also showcased his versatility with an early three-pointer that energized his teammates. Senior guard Charlie Wizgird praised Niego’s confidence, stating, “Joe’s a much more confident player this year. He takes most of our shots for a good reason.”
Niego’s performance is a vital turning point for Brother Rice, who now holds a record of 6-2 this season. Senior guard Zach Grabowski emphasized the impact of Niego’s game, saying, “Joe’s a jack-of-all-trades… Everything he does just brings up the whole gym and the mood of the whole team.”
Last season, Niego played behind five college-bound players, managing to score only 31 points across 31 games. However, he learned valuable lessons from his older brothers—Josh and Quinn, both St. Xavier alumni—and embraced the pressure that comes with his family’s legacy. “Pressure makes diamonds,” Niego remarked, acknowledging the expectations that come with being part of a competitive basketball family.
As the youngest in a line of talented athletes, Niego’s determination has fueled his success on the court. His cousin, Jackson, plays at Illinois Wesleyan, and Joe has aspirations to play alongside his brother at St. Francis. With childhood friends like Grabowski and Wizgird by his side, Niego’s journey is deeply rooted in family bonds and shared experiences.
“I’ve been super fortunate to have my family and basketball because I don’t know where I’d be without them,” Niego expressed passionately. This win not only boosts Brother Rice’s morale but also highlights the importance of teamwork and resilience in the face of adversity.
As Brother Rice looks ahead, fans will be eager to see how Niego and his teammates build on this momentum in their upcoming games. The spotlight is on, and Joe Niego is ready to shine brighter than ever.