The Beacon-News newsletter

Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Jaden Matthews-Thomas rebounds, literally, as West Aurora takes Upstate Eight West title. ‘Just love winning.’

Jaden Matthews-Thomas scores 11 points as West Aurora clinches the Upstate Eight West title with a 55-50 win at South Elgin.

After winning the sectional, Ohio commit Dayne Serio states his main goal for West Aurora. ‘Top of the podium.’

West Aurora’s Dayne Serio continues dominant senior season Saturday, rolling to the 175-pound sectional title.

Illinois high school football teams to practice earlier in August with season starting sooner

The Illinois High School Association’s member schools voted for the change following the expansion of the 2026 season.

Lining up her shot, Linnea Popp converts from lane with 1.8 seconds left for Geneva. Finally? ‘Had to step up.’

Geneva’s Linnea Popp scores 11 points and makes winning shot with 1.8 seconds left in 38-36 victory over Kaneland.

Marmion’s Joseph Kramer, who ‘kind of flies under the radar,’ keeps hitting from 3-point range. AAU is next.

Joseph Kramer hits four straight 3-pointers in first half and finishes with 14 points in 72-44 win over Ottawa Marquette.

Cole Jansons, who’s 6-foot-11 and growing, sparks resurgence for Oswego. And another OT win. ‘Gonna be fun.’

Cole Jansons scores four of his 13 points early in OT as Oswego pulls off 65-58 win over rival Oswego East.

Rick Armstrong’s high school boys basketball rankings and player of the week for the Aurora-Elgin area

Geneva and Burlington make biggest moves up rankings still topped by unbeaten Kaneland.

Basketball and local scores for the Southland, Aurora, Elgin, Naperville and Lake County

High school and local college results and highlights from the Southland, Aurora, Elgin, Naperville and Lake County.