The Delavan Varsity Panthers closed out their 2025–26 campaign this week with a postseason run that showcased just how far this young squad has come. A hard-fought 61–56 regional victory over the Midwest Central Raiders pushed Delavan into Round 2, where they battled the state-ranked Tremont Turks before ultimately falling 65–53. The loss ends the Panthers’ season—but not the momentum they’ve built.

A Regional Win Built on Toughness

Delavan’s opening round win over Midwest Central was a testament to composure and resilience. The Panthers controlled the pace early, weathered multiple Raider runs, and closed the game with the kind of poise that wasn’t always present early in the season. Ball movement, rebounding, and defensive pressure all clicked at the right time, giving Delavan its first postseason win with this young core.

Battling a State Power

In Round 2, the Panthers faced a tall order: Tremont, one of the top teams in Illinois. Delavan didn’t back down. They traded blows, kept the game within reach deep into the second half, and forced the Turks to earn every possession. Tremont’s depth and experience eventually created separation, but the Panthers’ effort left a clear message—this group is learning how to compete with the best.

Standouts Who Defined the Season

This roster grew together, leaned on each other, and carved out identities that will shape the program for years to come.

Hudson Briggs — Scoring Leader

Briggs emerged as Delavan’s go-to offensive weapon, capable of taking over stretches and carrying the scoring load when the Panthers needed a spark.

Grady Burrell — The Floor General

Even against tight, physical defenses, Burrell could move the ball anywhere on the court. His vision and control kept Delavan’s offense flowing.

James Pagel — The Clutch Shooter

When the Panthers needed a big three—especially in late game moments—Pagel was the one they trusted. His range and confidence changed games.

Hunter Lusher — The Enforcer on the Boards

Lusher may not have the speed of teammate Corie Green, but he brought a bruiser’s mentality to the paint. Once he secured a rebound, it was his—no questions asked.

Corie Green — Delavan’s Answer to “The Flash”

Green’s quickness created matchup problems all season, giving Delavan a burst of speed in transition and on-ball defense.

Corbin Soldal — Two Way Force

Soldal’s aggressive style on both ends made him one of the most disruptive players on the court. Whether attacking the rim or locking down a scorer, he set the tone.

Trace Kight Garlisch & Drake Neuendorf — The Utility Duo

Both players proved they could fit anywhere Delavan needed them. Their versatility gave the Panthers lineup flexibility and stability throughout the season.

A Season of Growth—and a Future Full of Promise

This was a young team, one that took its lumps early but grew sharper, tougher, and more connected with every game. By the end of the season, the Panthers weren’t just competing—they were believing.

The regional win, the fight against a state-ranked opponent, and the emergence of a deep, balanced roster all point to one thing: Delavan basketball is building something special.

As the Panthers look ahead, the community can expect a team that returns faster, stronger, and even more confident—one ready to turn this year’s lessons into next year’s breakthroughs.