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Willmar Today
By the People, for the People
Brainerd hands Willmar second straight loss
Warriors beat Cardinals 85-76 in Central Lakes Conference matchup
Published on Feb. 20, 2026
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The Brainerd boys basketball team handed Willmar its second straight loss on Tuesday night, defeating the Cardinals 85-76 in a Central Lakes Conference matchup. Brainerd had four players score in double figures, led by Aiden Gilbert's 18 points. Willmar also had four players reach double digits, with Alex Hoppe leading the way with 21 points and 8 rebounds.
Why it matters
The loss drops Willmar to 7-6 in the conference and 15-7 overall, while Brainerd improves to 6-7 in the CLC and 8-14 overall. This game is part of a stretch of seven games in 12 days for Willmar, who will need to quickly regroup as they look to bounce back.
The details
Brainerd had a balanced scoring attack, with Luke Merseth (17 points), Grant Johnson (14 points), and Preston Bernander (13 points) also reaching double figures. For Willmar, Jacob Eillingson scored 14 points, Cooper Schnichels had 12, and Jackson Carlson added 10. Willmar senior guard Avery Christensen contributed 7 points and 6 assists.
- The game was played on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
The players
Brainerd
The Brainerd boys basketball team, who improved to 6-7 in the Central Lakes Conference and 8-14 overall with the win.
Willmar
The Willmar boys basketball team, who fell to 7-6 in the conference and 15-7 overall with the loss.
Aiden Gilbert
A 6-foot-3 junior forward for Brainerd, who led the team with 18 points.
Alex Hoppe
A 6-2 junior who led Willmar with 21 points and 8 rebounds.
Avery Christensen
A senior guard for Willmar who had 7 points and 6 assists.
The takeaway
This game highlights the competitive nature of the Central Lakes Conference, as Brainerd was able to hand Willmar its second straight loss in a tight matchup. Willmar will need to quickly regroup as they face a busy stretch of games, while Brainerd will look to build on this win and climb the conference standings.
