Deer Creek Mackinaw Wins Class 1A State Title Over Mt Pulaski

Senior Dalia Dejesus leads Chiefs to perfect 33-0 season with dominant performance in championship game.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Deer Creek Mackinaw senior Dalia Dejesus scored 16 points, grabbed 13 rebounds, had 6 blocks and 5 assists to power the Chiefs to a 49-34 win over Mt Pulaski in the Class 1A state championship on Saturday. The Hilltoppers had a three point lead at the half but Deer Creek Mackinaw rallied in the second half to secure the title and finish the season a perfect 33-0.

Why it matters

This state championship victory caps off an undefeated season for Deer Creek Mackinaw, a remarkable accomplishment in high school basketball. The game was a rematch of last year's title game, where Mt Pulaski defeated Deer Creek Mackinaw, adding extra drama and significance to this year's outcome.

The details

Deer Creek Mackinaw trailed Mt Pulaski by 3 points at halftime, but Dalia Dejesus took over in the second half, dominating on both ends of the floor to lead her team to victory. Her 16 points, 13 rebounds, 6 blocks and 5 assists were crucial in overcoming the early deficit and securing the state championship for the Chiefs.

  • The Class 1A state championship game was played on Saturday, March 7, 2026.
  • Deer Creek Mackinaw finished the season with a perfect 33-0 record.

The players

Dalia Dejesus

A senior at Deer Creek Mackinaw High School who led her team to the Class 1A state championship with a dominant performance, scoring 16 points, grabbing 13 rebounds, blocking 6 shots, and dishing out 5 assists.

Deer Creek Mackinaw Chiefs

The high school basketball team from Deer Creek Mackinaw, Illinois that won the Class 1A state championship with a perfect 33-0 record.

Mt Pulaski Hilltoppers

The high school basketball team from Mt Pulaski, Illinois that lost to Deer Creek Mackinaw in the Class 1A state championship game, finishing the season with a 32-2 record.

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What they’re saying

“Dalia just took the game over in the second half. She's such a special player and leader for our team.”

— Coach Sarah Johnson, Head Coach, Deer Creek Mackinaw (channel1450.com)

What’s next

Deer Creek Mackinaw will look to defend their state title next season, while Mt Pulaski will aim to bounce back and make another deep playoff run.

The takeaway

Deer Creek Mackinaw's undefeated championship season showcases the talent and leadership of star player Dalia Dejesus, who dominated the title game to lead her team to victory. This win cements the Chiefs' status as one of the top high school basketball programs in Illinois.