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PLEASANT PLAINS, Ill. (WCIA) – The Pleasant Plains girls’ basketball team is making waves in the 2026 postseason with a series of impressive victories.
The Cardinals have stormed into the 2A state semifinals, boasting decisive wins with point margins of 46, 45, 31, 34, and 17.
After securing regional titles for the last two years but falling short at the sectional level, Pleasant Plains has finally clinched a sectional championship and a Super-Sectional title, marking their first success since capturing the 2A crown in 2020.
“We’re relentless,” said head coach TJ Fraase. “They never give up. They learn from their past mistakes. Third time’s a charm.”
For senior Bailey Leach, who has committed to playing soccer at Illinois State, this weekend’s trip to Normal for the state tournament will mark her final appearance on the basketball court.
“I want to win state,” Leach said. “This is my last year ever playing basketball. My last year every playing with all these girls. I just love them so much. I don’t know what I’d do without them.”
The Cardinals take on Breese Central at 2:30 p.m. in CEFCU Arena on the campus of Illinois State on Thursday. Thursday’s winner advances to the state championship on Saturday.