Tolono Unity Rockets turned up the defensive pressure in the second quarter and never looked back, cruising past the Monticello Sages 62–42 in a Class 2A boys basketball Regional semifinal on Wednesday at the Maroa-Forsyth Regional.
The two rivals were locked in a tight battle early, finishing the first quarter tied at 18. Unity changed the tone of the game in the second quarter, unleashing a full-court press that forced a string of Monticello turnovers. The Rockets capitalized in transition, quickly pulling ahead and establishing control for good.
Unity continued to build its lead throughout the second half, stretching the margin to 30 points with five minutes remaining in the fourth quarter, which activated the mercy-rule running clock. The win served as a measure of redemption for the Rockets, who were defeated by Monticello in last year’s Regional Championship game in Westville.
The Rockets placed three players in double figures, led by Tyler Henry’s game-high 21 points. Dane Eisenmenger and Brayden Henry each added 14 points to fuel the balanced scoring effort.
Monticello was paced by Ayden McCool, who scored 10 points, all coming in the opening quarter before Unity’s defensive pressure took hold.
With the victory, Tolono Unity advances to the Regional Championship game Friday night in Maroa, carrying momentum and confidence into the title matchup.