The Monticello Lady Sages erased an early double-digit deficit Monday night, storming back to defeat the Prairie Central Lady Hawks 48-42 in IHSA Class 2A Regional semifinal action in Fairbury.
Monticello found itself in a hole early, trailing 22-11 midway through the second quarter as Prairie Central controlled the tempo. But the Lady Sages responded with poise, closing the first half on an 8-2 run to cut the deficit to 24-19 at the break.
Ali Weidner sparked the comeback effort, pouring in 11 of her team-high 16 points during the second quarter to keep Monticello within striking distance.
Coming out of halftime, Monticello seized the momentum. Sara Cresap drilled a three-pointer to open the third quarter, igniting a dominant 17-6 surge in the period. The Lady Sages flipped the script with defensive intensity and timely shot-making to take control heading into the final frame.
Despite struggling at the free throw line — finishing 12-of-26 for the game — Monticello did enough in the fourth quarter to secure the six-point victory.
Cresap added 12 points, all coming in the second half, providing a key offensive lift as Monticello completed the rally.
Weidner was named the State Bank of Bement Player of the Game for her standout performance.
With the win, Monticello advances to the Regional Championship on Friday night, where the Lady Sages will face Pontiac Indians at 7 p.m. in Fairbury.