While the scoreboards at CEFCU Arena in Normal Saturday might have suggested a lack of drama, the Illinois High School Association (IHSA) girls’ basketball state finals served as a definitive showcase of dominant, disciplined play. Across all four classes, the champions displayed a clinical efficiency that proved too much for their opponents to overcome.
4A Powerhouse: Nazareth Academy
In the premier Class 4A matchup, Nazareth Academy (LaGrange Park) left no doubt about their supremacy, dismantling Loyola Academy (Wilmette) with a punishing 55-23 victory. The Roadrunners’ defense suffocated the Ramblers, holding them to one of the lowest scoring totals in championship history, The Chicago Tribune reports.
1A Turning Point: Dee-Mack Pulls Away
The Class 1A final provided the afternoon’s most competitive stretch. Deer Creek-Mackinaw and Mt Pulaski were deadlocked at 23-23 midway through the third quarter. However, the Chiefs ignited a late-game surge that silenced the Hilltoppers, finishing on a tear to secure a 49-34 win.
Mid-Class Dominance: Breese Central and Washington
The Class 2A and 3A games followed a similar script of steady, insurmountable leads:
- Class 2A: Breese Central utilized a stout defensive scheme to keep Byron at arm’s length, taking the title with a 44-28 win.
- Class 3A: Washington High School showcased an explosive offense against Chatham Glenwood, putting up 60 points (the highest of the day) to win 60-45.