Pella Dutch Preparing for Rematch with Clark, Keokuk for State Tournament Bid

Pella boys basketball team aims to return to the state tournament on Monday.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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The #4 in 3A Pella Dutch will host Keokuk in the 3A substate finals, a rematch of a 70-46 Pella win earlier this season. Keokuk is led by surefire All-State selection Jaxon Clark, a 6-10 center averaging 28.3 points and 17.7 rebounds per game. Pella is seeking its 20th ever trip to the state tournament, while Keokuk is looking for its 10th appearance and first since 1999.

Why it matters

This matchup features two of the top teams in Class 3A boys basketball, with the winner advancing to the state tournament. Pella is looking to return to state for the first time since 2024, while Keokuk is aiming for its first state tournament berth in over 25 years.

The details

Pella earned its 20th win of the season last Thursday, crushing Washington 76-38. The Dutch will now face a fourth consecutive Southeast Conference opponent, the league champion Chiefs. When the teams met on December 9th, Pella won 70-46 despite a 31 point, 16 rebound performance by Keokuk's Jaxon Clark.

  • Pella and Keokuk will play the 3A substate finals on Monday, March 3, 2026.
  • Pella defeated Keokuk 70-46 in their previous matchup on December 9, 2025.

The players

Jaxon Clark

A 6-10 center for Keokuk, he is a surefire All-State selection averaging 28.3 points and 17.7 rebounds per game this season.

Pella Dutch

The #4 ranked team in Class 3A, Pella is seeking its 20th ever trip to the state tournament, and its first since 2024.

Keokuk Chiefs

The Southeast Conference champions, Keokuk is looking for its 10th state tournament appearance and first since 1999.

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What’s next

The winner of the Pella-Keokuk substate final will advance to the Iowa High School Boys Basketball State Tournament.

The takeaway

This matchup between two of the top teams in Class 3A boys basketball will determine which program earns a coveted spot in the state tournament. Pella is looking to return to state for the first time in two years, while Keokuk aims to end a long drought and make its first state tournament appearance since 1999.