Galesburg Silver Streaks girls basketball enters postseason at 25-4

The team looks to continue its impressive season with a deep playoff run

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Galesburg Silver Streaks girls basketball team is coming off a 25-4 regular season, including a second-place finish in the Western Big 6 conference, a first-place showing at the Mattoon Christmas Tournament, and a #2 ranking in the 3A state poll. The team is led by standout sophomore guard Zaniyah Carter and features a deep, balanced roster with several players capable of scoring in double figures. Galesburg's pressure defense and run-and-jump press have created problems for opponents all season. The Silver Streaks will open the postseason against East Peoria in the East Peoria Regional, with a potential rematch against Morton looming in the regional final.

Why it matters

Galesburg has established itself as one of the top girls basketball programs in central Illinois this season, with impressive wins over several state-ranked teams. The Silver Streaks' deep playoff run could bring excitement and pride to the local community, while also showcasing the talent and hard work of the players and coaching staff.

The details

Galesburg's only four losses this season came against powerful opponents like Quincy, Loyola, Sterling, and Rock Island. The team has beaten six state-ranked opponents, including Metamora, Peoria Notre Dame, Teutopolis, Bettendorf (Iowa), Sterling, and Morton. The Silver Streaks are led by a trio of juniors in Joz Kilgore, Taylor Herchenroder, and Ella Herchenroder, who are in their third year as varsity regulars. Zaniyah Carter, a sophomore guard, is the team's leading scorer at around 14 points per game.

  • The Galesburg Silver Streaks finished the regular season with a 25-4 record.
  • The East Peoria Regional tournament will begin on Monday, February 16.
  • The regional championship game is scheduled for Thursday, February 19.
  • The Galesburg Sectional tournament will take place on Tuesday, February 24 and Thursday, February 26.

The players

Zaniyah Carter

A quick, 5'7" sophomore guard who is Galesburg's leading scorer, averaging around 14 points per game.

Joz Kilgore

A 5'11" junior who is in her third year as a varsity regular for the Silver Streaks.

Taylor Herchenroder

A 5'7" junior who is in her third year as a varsity regular for the Silver Streaks.

Ella Herchenroder

A 5'7" junior who is in her third year as a varsity regular for the Silver Streaks.

Jamie King

The first-year head coach of the Morton Potters, replacing legendary coach Bob Becker.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

The winner of the East Peoria Regional will advance to the Galesburg Sectional, where they will face the winner of the Metamora Regional in the first round on Tuesday, February 24.

The takeaway

Galesburg's impressive regular season has set the stage for what could be a deep postseason run. The Silver Streaks' balanced scoring, stifling defense, and tournament-tested experience make them a formidable opponent for any team they face in the playoffs. A successful postseason would not only bring pride to the Galesburg community, but also showcase the talent and hard work of the players and coaching staff.