It was the most anticipated game of the week as undefeated Mt. Pulaski (19-0) welcomed powerhouse Illini Bluffs (20-2) in a matchup that had been circled on calendars for weeks. The stands were packed well before tipoff, the energy in the gym buzzing with anticipation for a battle between two of the area’s best.
Illini Bluffs came in with one goal in mind: hand Mt. Pulaski their first loss of the season. Early on, nerves showed on both sides as the game opened with a slow, defensive-heavy pace. After the first quarter, the Hilltoppers trailed 10-7. The second quarter turned into a defensive masterclass, with both teams locking down and making every possession a grind. Mt. Pulaski held a slim 16-14 edge at halftime.
The game began to open up in the third quarter, and it was Alyson Murphy who sparked the Hilltoppers. Her scoring surge helped Mt. Pulaski pull ahead 28-20, igniting the crowd and giving the home team momentum. But the Tigers of Illini Bluffs refused to go quietly. They battled all the way back and, with just 11 seconds left in regulation, took a two-point lead.
Head coach Ryan McVickers called a timeout to draw up one final play. What followed was pure drama. Murphy took the ball the length of the court and finished with two seconds remaining, sending the game into overtime tied at 33-33. The gym erupted as the community rose to its feet, fully behind the Hilltoppers in a moment they won’t soon forget.
In overtime, it was Mt. Pulaski’s composure and defense that made the difference. The Hilltoppers were clutch at the free-throw line and continued to lock down on the defensive end, shutting down Illini Bluffs’ scoring chances. When the final horn sounded, Mt. Pulaski had secured a 39-35 overtime victory.
With the win, the Hilltoppers improved to a perfect 20-0 on the season. After the game, Coach McVickers praised his team’s defensive effort and resilience, saying the sky is the limit for this group. In front of a packed house and an energized community, Mt. Pulaski proved once again why this season feels truly magical.
Alyson Murphy talks OT win and 24 point performance
Coach McVickers talks crazy OT win over Illini Bluffs
Alyson Murphy forces OT for the Hilltoppers
Alyson Murphy scores a sweet floater
Addison Brown hits the tripleeeee