The Pleasant Plains Cardinals took the big stage this afternoon in the IHSA State Finals as they faced Breese Central.
Both teams started slow as the nerves of playing in a state championship environment were evident early. Defensive stops and turnovers defined the opening quarter, with Pleasant Plains struggling to find rhythm offensively. The Cardinals trailed 10–4 at the end of the first quarter.
The second quarter saw Breese Central begin to pull away, showing why they have been one of the strongest 2A teams in Southern Illinois all season. Led by Taylor Tremme, who finished with 15 points, the Cougars extended their lead and went into halftime ahead 17–8.
Breese Central caught fire in the third quarter. Lexy Santel sparked the offense with 11 points, helping push the lead to 35–18 as the Cougars controlled the pace of the game.
But Pleasant Plains did what they’ve done all season — they fought back.
The Cardinals rallied late behind Bailey Leach, who knocked down a key three-pointer, and Anna Weber, who took control inside the paint. Plains cut the deficit to 39–30 with three minutes remaining, but the comeback effort came up just short as Breese Central closed out the game for a 48–40 victory.
Pleasant Plains will now regroup and play in the IHSA Class 2A Third Place Game tonight at 8:00 PM.
Pleasant Plains Stats
• Anna Weber — 17 pts
• Bailey Leach — 10 pts
• Madison Burke — 6 pts
Madison Burke talks tough loss
Aurora Fraase takes he charge for Plains
Anna Weber scores a tough AND ONE for Plains