A Star is Born: Alexis Neumann Leads Glenwood to Sectional Glory

Alexis Neumann: Rising Star of Chatham Glenwood

WATERLOO — Alexis Neumann wasn't perfect, but she was remarkably close, delivering an outstanding performance that led her team to victory. On Thursday, Chatham Glenwood triumphed over Quincy Notre Dame in a competitive Class 3A Waterloo Sectional title game, making it another milestone in Neumann's already impressive high school career.

She Dominated the Court

The 6-foot-2 junior forward scored 25 points with a stunning shooting efficiency of 7-for-9 while maintaining a perfect 11-for-11 from the charity stripe. Coupled with her commanding performance on the boards—10 rebounds—Neumann's double-double proved critical in securing the 51-36 victory.

With a calm confidence, Neumann commented on her play:

"I think that I just utilized my inside game, getting those mismatches and utilizing that (and) really getting inside and making my free throws was the biggest thing,"

she said, emphasizing her relentless approach to the game.

Coaches and Fans Take Note

Coach Eric Orne of QND acknowledged the challenges posed by Neumann.

"We knew that from two years ago… She had a great game. Obviously, we had a game plan to try to stop her and contain her, but she made some really superior plays and kind of took the game over herself. To her credit, she had an absolutely astounding game."

A Sterling History

This latest win marks the second sectional title for the Titans in three years, triumphing in their history's fifth championship. It's noteworthy to remember that just last year, Glenwood clinched second place in the 2024 Class 3A state tournament with many of the same athletes who are evolving as premier players.

Glenwood's previous matchup against QND in the Decatur MacArthur Sectional championship ended in a nail-biting 44-43 win, fueling QND's desire for revenge in this encounter. Coach Alyssa Riley noted the significance of past encounters in motivating her team:

"They wanted revenge from two years ago… We used that as fuel, that 'Hey, it's just as much your right to that win as it is theirs. Go take it from them, but they're not going to give it to you.'"

Paving the Way to Success

After an electric start where Glenwood took an early 7-0 lead, QND managed to tie the game at 14-14 midway through the second period, thanks to some aggressive shooting from beyond the arc. However, the Titans regrouped at halftime, leading 21-17, and returned to the court with a renewed sense of focus, drastically reducing their turnovers from ten in the first half to just three in the second.

This strategic shift played a vital role as Glenwood ultimately surged ahead with a solid lead, showcasing their resilience. Neumann, recognized not only for her prowess but also for her impressive evolution as a player, drew fouls late in the game, solidifying victory with six consecutive free throws.

Looking Ahead

As Glenwood prepares for the 3A Supersectional showdown against fellow Central State Eight opponent Decatur MacArthur, it's clear that Neumann's stellar performance and confidence will play a crucial role. Their previous meeting resulted in a solid 58-36 victory, but as we all know, every game can tell a different story in the high-stakes world of high school sports.

Neumann reflects on the evolution of her game:

"Talent-wise, she's improved, but her mental game has improved. Realizing she can come out and have 25 points and 10 rebounds and it's not a problem."

With the playoffs heating up, it will be exciting to see how Alexis Neumann continues to shine on the court.