Pella Girls Basketball Team Holds Off Ballard in Regional Semifinals

Dutch build early lead but have to fend off late Bomber comeback attempt

Feb. 22, 2026 at 6:00pm

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The Pella girls basketball team built a 17-point lead in the first half but had to hold off a late Ballard comeback attempt to win 43-33 in the Class 4A Regional Semifinals. The Dutch committed 21 turnovers but made key plays down the stretch to secure the victory and advance to the regional final.

Why it matters

Pella’s win keeps their season alive as they seek to reach the state tournament for the fourth consecutive year. The game was a test of the Dutch’s resilience after they let a big lead slip away, showing their ability to close out a tough opponent.

The details

Pella jumped out to a 21-4 lead in the first half before Ballard started chipping away at the advantage. The Bombers were able to capitalize on 21 Pella turnovers to make it a close game in the fourth quarter. However, the Dutch made several key plays late and hit free throws in the final minute to seal the victory.

  • The game was played on Saturday, February 22, 2026.

The players

Blaine Forsythe

The head coach of the Pella girls basketball team.

Emma Walkup

A Pella player who scored 10 points in the game.

Kamryn Long

A Pella player who scored 9 points in her return to the lineup after missing several games due to injury.

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What they’re saying

“Our players got off to a fast start on both ends of the court through the first court. We had a focus on the scout that was the best we have had all year. Ballard made a few adjustments late in the first half that forced our players to respond. Proud of our players' effort tonight and how they closed it out. I thought Riley and Carleigh came up huge with hustle plays in the 4th quarter that turned the momentum back our way. We are excited for an opportunity to play in our 4th straight Class 4A Regional Final at DCG on Tuesday.”

— Blaine Forsythe, Head Coach

What’s next

Pella will play in its 4th consecutive 4A regional final on the road against #2 in 4A Dallas Center-Grimes on Tuesday.

The takeaway

Pella’s ability to hold off Ballard’s late comeback attempt and advance to the regional final demonstrates the team’s resilience and experience in high-pressure playoff situations. The Dutch will look to continue their postseason run against a tough Dallas Center-Grimes squad.