IHSA State Finals:1A Girls Recap

Mt. Pulaski Survives Overtime Battle, Defeats Brown County 47–40

NORMAL, Ill. — Mt. Pulaski outlasted Brown County in a physical overtime matchup Thursday at CEFCU Arena (Doug Collins Court), securing a 47–40 victory after pulling away in the extra period.

The contest featured nine lead changes and four ties, with both teams trading momentum throughout regulation before Mt. Pulaski sealed the game in overtime.

Overtime Push Secures the Win

Brown County fought back late in regulation and briefly grabbed a three-point lead with 22 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter, but Mt. Pulaski responded and forced overtime.

In the extra period, Mt. Pulaski took control, outscoring Brown County 9–2 to close the game.

The Hilltoppers dominated the glass, finishing with a 42–36 rebounding advantage, including 30 defensive rebounds, which proved critical in limiting Brown County’s second-chance opportunities late.

Murphy and Marten Lead Mt. Pulaski

Mt. Pulaski was led by Alyson Murphy, who scored 18 points while adding 8 rebounds and knocking down 6-of-7 free throws.

Forward Elayna Marten delivered a strong all-around performance with 14 points and 9 rebounds, helping anchor the Hilltoppers on both ends of the floor.

Guard Addison Brown contributed 8 points, including two three-pointers, while Audrey Cooper chipped in 5 points and 3 rebounds.

Henry Dominates the Boards for Brown County

Brown County was led by Maggi Henry, who recorded a dominant rebounding performance with 16 rebounds to go along with 11 points, giving the Hornets a double-double.

Kenzie Kassing added 9 points and 5 assists, while Hope Ingram finished with 8 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 blocks, providing a strong defensive presence inside.

Despite their rebounding efforts and 23 points off turnovers, Brown County struggled shooting the ball, finishing just 28.6% from the field and 41.2% from the free-throw line.

Key Game Stats

Mt. Pulaski

• 47 points

• 7 three-pointers

• 42 rebounds

• 70.6% free throw shooting

Brown County

• 36 rebounds

• 23 points off turnovers

• 10 steals

• 5 blocked shots

Game Flow

Mt. Pulaski controlled much of the early action, leading for over 26 minutes during the contest. Brown County rallied late in the fourth quarter to briefly take the lead, but the Hilltoppers regrouped in overtime.

With clutch free throws and key defensive stops, Mt. Pulaski closed the door on Brown County to advance with the seven-point victory.