IHSA State Finals: Game Recap 1A Girls

Dalia DeJesus Dominates as Dee-Mack Defeats Rockford Christian 48–35

NORMAL, Ill. — A dominant performance from Dalia DeJesus powered Dee-Mack to a 48–35 victory over Rockford Christian on March 5 at CEFCU Arena (Doug Collins Court).

Dee-Mack controlled the game for most of the afternoon, using efficient shooting and strong second-half execution to pull away from Rockford Christian.

DeJesus Takes Over

Dee-Mack star Dalia DeJesus delivered the standout performance of the game, exploding for 31 points and 10 rebounds to record a commanding double-double.

DeJesus shot 9-of-15 from the field and 12-of-15 from the free throw line, consistently attacking the paint and drawing fouls. She also added 4 blocks and 4 steals, showcasing her impact on both ends of the floor.

Her scoring accounted for nearly two-thirds of Dee-Mack’s total offense.

Dee-Mack Pulls Away in the Third Quarter

The game remained competitive early, with Dee-Mack holding a narrow 21–15 halftime lead.

However, the Chiefs created separation in the third quarter, scoring 18 points while shooting 56% from the field during the period. A 9–0 run helped extend the lead to as many as 16 points, putting Rockford Christian in a difficult position entering the final quarter.

Dee-Mack finished the game shooting 42.4% from the field and 38.5% from three-point range, while also forcing 14 turnovers.

Rockford Christian Battles but Struggles Offensively

Rockford Christian struggled offensively throughout the contest, finishing just 27.3% from the field and 14.3% from three-point range.

Shea Ludwig led the Royal Lions with 11 points and 5 rebounds, while Lucy Gargani added 9 points and 4 steals.

Josie Becker chipped in 8 points, and Jaden Conerly added 5 points and 5 rebounds.

Despite forcing 17 turnovers and generating 11 fast-break points, Rockford Christian was unable to find consistent scoring.

Key Game Stats

Dee-Mack

• 48 points

• 42.4% field goal shooting

• 29 rebounds

• 15 free throws made

Rockford Christian

• 24 rebounds

• 10 steals

• 15 points off turnovers

Game Flow

Dee-Mack led for over 26 minutes of game time, maintaining steady control throughout the matchup. After building a comfortable third-quarter lead, the Chiefs managed the game down the stretch to secure the 13-point victory.

Behind the outstanding performance of Dalia DeJesus, Dee-Mack advances with momentum after a complete performance on both ends of the floor.