Iowa Boys Basketball Playoff Scores Roundup

Highlights from Friday's Class 4A Substate Semifinal games across the state

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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High school boys basketball playoff action was in full swing across Iowa on Friday night, with several key Class 4A Substate Semifinal matchups taking place. Teams from Des Moines, Cedar Rapids, Davenport, and other cities battled it out, with some decisive wins and a few close contests.

Why it matters

The boys basketball playoffs are an exciting time for high school sports fans in Iowa, as teams compete to advance to the state tournament. These Substate Semifinal games represent a critical step on the road to the championship, with the winners moving one step closer to the ultimate prize.

The details

In Substate 8, CBAL defeated SE Polk 78-53, while Waukee routed Lewis Central 85-44. Substate 7 saw Johnston take down Dallas Center Grimes 61-43, and Des Moines Roosevelt beat Des Moines East 79-52. Other notable results included North Scott's 62-47 win over Bettendorf, and Dubuque Senior defeating Pleasant Valley 71-58.

  • The Class 4A Substate Semifinal games took place on Friday, February 27, 2026.

The players

CBAL

A high school basketball team competing in the Class 4A playoffs.

SE Polk

A high school basketball team competing in the Class 4A playoffs.

Waukee

A high school basketball team competing in the Class 4A playoffs.

Lewis Central

A high school basketball team competing in the Class 4A playoffs.

Johnston

A high school basketball team competing in the Class 4A playoffs.

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The takeaway

These Substate Semifinal games showcased the talent and competitiveness of Iowa's high school basketball teams as they vie for a spot in the state tournament. Fans can look forward to even more exciting action as the playoffs continue.