Muskegon Pulls Away From Eisenhower 69-46, Advances to State Championship

EAST LANSING, MI — March 20, 2026

By Caleb Bushell | DVS Reporter

Muskegon used a dominant second half to defeat Utica Eisenhower 69–46 at the Breslin Center, punching their ticket to the MHSAA Division 1 Girls Basketball State Championship.

After a competitive first quarter, Muskegon’s defense, rebounding, and ability to get to the free-throw line proved to be the difference as they took control of the game.

1st Quarter – Physical Start, Eisenhower Edges Ahead

The game opened with a physical tone, with both teams getting to the free-throw line early. Muskegon entered the bonus quickly but struggled to convert, missing several early opportunities.

Offense was slow to develop until #10 Leah Poggiolo knocked down a three to give Eisenhower a 5–1 lead. Later in the quarter, #1 Janielle Turner added another three-pointer to keep Eisenhower in control.

Despite Muskegon’s struggles shooting, they closed the gap late, finishing the quarter down just one, 14–13.

2nd Quarter – Muskegon Takes Control

Muskegon came alive in the second quarter, finding rhythm offensively while tightening up defensively.

After tying the game at 18–18 with just over three minutes remaining, momentum completely shifted. Muskegon capitalized on Eisenhower mistakes, turning turnovers into points while dominating the glass.

With energy building from their bench and student section, Muskegon began attacking the paint effectively, with #4 and #10 leading the charge.

By halftime, Muskegon had taken full control, leading 29–21.

3rd Quarter – Defense Extends the Lead

Muskegon’s defense took over in the third quarter.

With 3:40 remaining in the quarter, Eisenhower had yet to score in the half, struggling to find any offensive rhythm. Muskegon extended their lead to 37–21, fueled by defensive pressure and continued trips to the free-throw line.

Eisenhower finally broke through with a free throw, but the damage had already been done. Muskegon continued to control the tempo, closing the quarter with a commanding 44–28 lead.

4th Quarter – Muskegon Closes It Out

With the championship in sight, Muskegon showed no signs of slowing down.

#10 Mariah Sain led the way offensively, finishing with 25 points, while the team maintained defensive intensity and controlled the pace of the game.

As the lead grew, Muskegon began to empty the bench, while their student section celebrated what had become a dominant performance.

Muskegon closed out the game with a 69–46 victory, securing their spot in the state championship.

Final Thoughts

After a slow start, Muskegon turned this game into a statement win.

Their ability to dominate the boards, force turnovers, and consistently get to the free-throw line (24-for-39 through three quarters) overwhelmed Eisenhower in the second half.

With standout performances and complete control down the stretch, Muskegon now advances to the State Championship, where they will face Detroit Renaissance.