Lincoln Community High School assistant boys basketball coach Eric Ewald and Jordan Zimmer of Delavan are among the inductees in the Illinois Basketball Coaches Association 2026 Hall of Fame Class.
Longtime Railer head coach Neil Alexander said Ewald is a valuable member of the Railer coaching staff.
“He’s sat alongside me a long time…28 of my 30-something years,” Alexander said. “He’s a very important part of our program. This [IBCA Hall of Fame recognition] is an honor that is well deserved.
“He’s one who doesn’t want any recognition; he just wants to work with the kids and coach the players. He’s definitely an individual that could’ve been a very good head coach, but he found his niche here. And I’m very glad for that.”
Also being named to the IBCA Hall of Fame from the area is Delavan’s Jordan Zimmer. Zimmer was a first-team Class 1A all-state selection who finished among state leaders in career 3-pointers made. Zimmer went on to play basketball at Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington from 2008 to 2012.
Ewald, Zimmer and all members of the 2026 class will be inducted into the IBCA Hall of Fame on May 2, 2026 at a banquet held at CEFCU Arena on the campus of Illinois State University in Normal.
Founded in 1971, the IBCA exists to serve, honor, promote, and develop the game of basketball in Illinois through advocacy for and support and celebration of players, officials, media, fans and IBCA member coaches.
Congratulations Eric! Well deserved!!!
Congratulations from a proud Dad and Mom. Eric has always had a large loving heart for the players the staff and the game. We are glad he is rewarded with such an honor. Tom and Jan Ewald
Congratulations. , Coach Ewald. Couldn’t have been given to any body better or deserving.
Congratulations Eric Ewald!
Congratulations Eric! This is a great recognition for a great teacher and coach.
Congratulations Eric!! Every high school boy I’ve every talked to about you as a coach and English teacher, have only had great things to say… your knowledge, your temperament, your clear instruction, and consistent encouragement, made their time on the team or classroom a better one!! Well done!!!
We remember Eric Ewald! Always such a nice guy. Glad to see him recognized.
Angie & Bob Fitzsimmons, LCC 1996
So very proud of my handsome, gifted, humble nephew. I’m certain you have made a difference in many young lives for Jesus and basketball. Susan Ewald Deckard