Iola-Scandinavia girls get victory in the first round of the playoffs

In an opening round home contest in the WIAA girls’ playoffs, the Iola-Scandinavia Thunderbirds faced Marion/Tigerton on Feb. 24.

A complete team performance fueled a 62-point outing by Iola-Scandinavia, as balanced scoring, aggressive defense, and dominant rebounding defined the night. While the shooting percentages fluctuated, the group’s persistence on the glass and defensive pressure ultimately shaped the outcome.

The most telling stat for Iola came on the boards: 54 total rebounds, including 27 offensive rebounds. That relentless rebounding effort generated extra possessions and helped offset 21 turnovers.

Defensively, the Thunderbirds were disruptive throughout the contest, recording 18 steals and three blocks, constantly applying pressure and forcing difficult possessions.

Senior Rayanne Clendenning delivered one of the most impactful performances of the night. She posted eight rebounds (six offensive), anchoring the team’s dominance inside. Her ability to create second-chance opportunities gave the Iola offense repeated scoring chances and shifted momentum throughout the game.

Senior Brylee Jueds provided an offensive spark for the Thunderbirds, scoring 10 points on an efficient four-of-six shooting, while going a perfect two-of-two from the free-throw line. She added five rebounds to help the Thunderbirds get a 62-38 victory.

Iola-Scandinavia could not keep the momentum going in the regional semifinal as they were defeated 64-22 by Saint Mary Catholic.