Natalia Chi
A student from Lions Township High School sank a half-court shot at a school rally and won $10,000, so we had good reason to celebrate Friday.
The students’ amazing feat occurred at the 2023 all-school rally, where high school cheerleaders and marching bands showcased their talents and classmates faced off in friendly competition.
About an hour after the start, Marco Piemonte, owner of the Piemonte Auto Group, surprised the students with a shocking premonition. Piedmont has pledged to give $10,000 to any of its 10 students who make a successful half-court shot.
Piedmont was inspired to bring a giveaway to a suburban high school after someone hit a half-court shot and won $10,000 at a recent basketball game between Lions Township and rival Hinsdale Central High School.
The autogroup owner said, “I heard this school was much more fun,” and wanted to see for himself.
In the competition, many students tried their best, but unfortunately they did not succeed. Things suddenly changed when he was replaced by Alek Krzemkowski, a freshman.
Before anyone knew it, the shot was right. The whole gymnasium cheered loudly and congratulated their classmates.
Piedmont then shocked the crowd with two of his own shots on half court. He gave his $5,000 to each of the students who missed the previous shot, and his $1,000 to each of his five friends of his choosing. In the end, Piedmont donated his $30,000 out of the $40,000 he brought to school.
