In a week defined by heart-stopping finishes and gritty comebacks, the Delavan Panthers showcased their growth and determination, first clawing past the Midwest Central Raiders to reclaim the Tomahawk Trophy, then fending off the Illini Bluffs Tigers in a dramatic defense of their prize.

Tuesday night’s rivalry clash with the Raiders was a rollercoaster of momentum swings. The Panthers started flat, trailing 8–13 after the first quarter as Midwest Central’s defense stifled their rhythm. By halftime, Delavan had steadied themselves, eking out a 19–17 lead. But the Raiders seized control in the third, outscoring Delavan 16–7 and pushing the Panthers into a 26–33 deficit heading into the final eight minutes.

Then, sophomore guard Hudson Briggs (#14) ignited a furious fourth-quarter rally. Attacking the rim with relentless energy, Briggs poured in a game-high 22 points, setting the tone for a comeback that saw Delavan score nearly half their total points in the final stretch. Supported by Grady Burrell (#10) with 13 points and Corbin Soldal (#13) with 10, the Panthers moved the ball with purpose, breaking down the Raiders’ defense and fueling their surge.

On the boards, Burrell, Soldal, and James Pagel (#3) led the charge, combining for 22 rebounds and providing crucial extra possessions. Head Coach Dan Hansen praised his young squad’s resilience, noting, “These guys are young, and they are figuring it out at the right time.” With the Tomahawk Trophy back in Delavan’s hands, the Panthers proved no lead is safe against them when the pressure peaks.

Friday brought another test as Delavan faced the Tigers, fresh off their trophy win. The Panthers jumped ahead early, leading 15–10 after the first quarter and 20–15 at halftime. But Illini Bluffs roared back in the third, taking a 34–31 lead. Delavan responded with trademark grit, rallying in the fourth to edge out a 47–44 victory. Briggs again led the scoring with 17 points, while Soldal added 9. Burrell, Pagel, and Hunter Lusher (#21) each chipped in 7.

The game’s climax came with just 11.3 seconds left. With Delavan up by one and both teams in Double Bonus, Lusher was fouled and calmly sank two free throws, sealing the win. Coach Hansen reflected, “We got punched in the face early, for the first time we punched back! … We dug in and showed heart. It’s so good when we play for something bigger than ourselves, not the Tomahawk, but each other.”

These two victories not only highlight the Panthers’ ability to overcome adversity, but also their commitment to teamwork and growth. The squad battled through injuries and illness, with five players fighting off sickness and one playing on a sprained ankle. Their perseverance and unity were evident in every possession, every rebound, and every clutch basket. The energy in the gym was electric as Delavan’s defense tightened and their offense executed under pressure, turning tense moments into celebrations.