Chadron Loses in State Title Game 46-40

Elliott Eliason, a 6-foot-11 center who signed with Minnesota in the early signing period, led Chadron (NE) High with 14 points and five blocked shots, but it was not enough as the Cardinals fell to two-time defending Class C-1 state champions Hastings (NE) St. Cecilia 46-40. Chadron entered the title game undefeated and was the No. 1 seed.

Chadron led 31-30 after three quarters, but seniors Dalton Sealy and senior Joe Ryan made consecutive three-pointers to give the Bluehawks a 38-35 lead, and St. Cecilia never trailed again. They made six of ten from the foul line in the final two minutes to seal the win.

St. Cecilia becomes the first C-1 team ever to win three straight boys basketball championships, and just the fourth C-1 team ever to capture both football and boys basketball titles in the same school year. They finished the season 25-1, while Chadron ended their year at 23-2.