4 Northeast Wisconsin Boys Basketball Teams Headed to State Tournament

De Pere, Appleton North, Bonduel and Reedsville qualify for the state tournament at the Kohl Center in Madison

Mar. 15, 2026 at 12:19am

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Four boys basketball teams from Northeast Wisconsin - De Pere, Appleton North, Bonduel, and Reedsville - have qualified for the state tournament next week at the Kohl Center in Madison. This marks the first time in program history that Appleton North has made it to state, while Reedsville is returning for the first time in 80 years.

Why it matters

The state tournament is the pinnacle of high school basketball in Wisconsin, and qualifying is a major accomplishment for these teams and their communities. Making it to state can boost school spirit, generate media attention, and provide a memorable experience for the players, coaches, and fans.

The details

In the Division 1 regional finals, (1) De Pere defeated (3) Brookfield East 97-74 to return to state for the first time since 2023, while (2) Appleton North edged out (4) Kaukauna 58-53 to reach state for the first time ever. In Division 2, (2) Slinger beat Notre Dame 53-42. In Division 4, (2) Bonduel topped (1) Marathon 78-68 to make state for the second year in a row. And in Division 5, (1) Reedsville defeated (1) Tigerton 56-45 to earn their first state tournament berth in 80 years.

  • The boys state tournament will take place next week at the Kohl Center in Madison.
  • The Division 1 regional finals were played on March 14, 2026.

The players

De Pere Redbirds

The De Pere boys basketball team is headed back to the state tournament for the first time since 2023.

Appleton North Lightning

The Appleton North boys basketball team is making its first ever appearance at the state tournament.

Bonduel Bears

The Bonduel boys basketball team is returning to the state tournament for the second year in a row.

Reedsville Panthers

The Reedsville boys basketball team is heading to the state tournament for the first time in 80 years.

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What they’re saying

“Qualifying for state is a dream come true for our program. The boys have worked so hard to get to this point, and I'm thrilled they get to experience playing on the biggest stage in Wisconsin high school basketball.”

— Tom Desotell, Head Coach, Appleton North Boys Basketball (Appleton Post-Crescent)

“After 80 years, it's about time Reedsville made it back to state. This team has a special bond, and they deserve this moment in the spotlight.”

— Sarah Krueger, Reedsville Booster Club President (Manitowoc Herald Times Reporter)

What’s next

The boys state tournament will take place March 20-22 at the Kohl Center in Madison. The four qualifying teams from Northeast Wisconsin will find out their tournament matchups and seedings in the coming days.

The takeaway

The success of these four boys basketball teams from Northeast Wisconsin is a testament to the strength of high school hoops in the region. Qualifying for the state tournament is an incredible achievement that will create lasting memories for the players, coaches, and communities involved.