Hyde Park Academy Hoops Squad Scores Big, Advances to CPS Elite Eight

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/Hyde Park · February 19, 2026

Hyde Park has plenty of reasons to cheer this February, as two exciting community highlights are putting the neighborhood in the spotlight. First, on the hardwood: the Hyde Park Academy boys basketball team is riding high after a dominant showing in the Chicago Public League playoffs. The team punched its ticket to the CPS Elite Eight with a commanding 74-45 victory over Fenger Academy, energizing students, parents, and fans across the neighborhood.

Meanwhile, music lovers have something to celebrate too. The University of Chicago's beloved Folk Festival has returned to campus this weekend after a one-year hiatus, bringing with it a packed slate of concerts, workshops, and spontaneous jam sessions — a welcome tradition back in the heart of Hyde Park. The festival has long been a signature winter event for the community, drawing folk enthusiasts from across the city to the South Side.

Whether you're heading to cheer on the Blazers as they advance deeper into the playoffs or catching a live set at the Folk Festival this weekend, Hyde Park is buzzing with community pride and positive energy. Keep an eye on Hyde Park Academy's schedule to catch the next game, and check the University of Chicago's events page for Folk Festival programming before it wraps up!

Sources:
1. https://www.hpherald.com/
2. https://www.hpherald.com/news/