Cedar Falls Tigers Advance to Substate Final

UNI recruit Will Gerdes scores 19 points in victory over Iowa City High

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Cedar Falls High School boys' basketball team defeated Iowa City High in the substate semifinal, led by 19 points from UNI recruit Will Gerdes. The Tigers will now advance to the substate final.

Why it matters

High school basketball is a point of pride for many Iowa communities, and the substate tournament represents a crucial step towards the state championship. Cedar Falls' victory keeps their season alive as they pursue a deep postseason run.

The details

In the semifinal matchup, Cedar Falls pulled away from Iowa City High, with Gerdes leading all scorers with 19 points. The Tigers' win sets them up for a showdown in the substate final as they continue their quest for a state title.

  • The game was played on February 28, 2026.

The players

Will Gerdes

A senior at Cedar Falls High School who has committed to play basketball at the University of Northern Iowa.

Cedar Falls High School

The boys' basketball team from Cedar Falls, Iowa that won the substate semifinal game.

Iowa City High School

The boys' basketball team from Iowa City, Iowa that lost to Cedar Falls in the substate semifinal.

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What’s next

The Cedar Falls Tigers will face the winner of the other substate semifinal in the substate final, with the winner advancing to the state tournament.

The takeaway

Cedar Falls' victory in the substate semifinal keeps their season alive and demonstrates the strength of their boys' basketball program, led by standout player Will Gerdes.