Get Ready for the 2026 IGHSAU Girls State Basketball Championships

Insights From Elle Ruffridge

What to watch for:

• Viewers will get the opportunity to listen to stories from coaches, players and even community members from throughout the season. They will get answers to questions such as what makes each tournament team successful in its own way and what historic programs across the state continue to do to reach the state tournament year after year.
• Johnston (5A), Mount Vernon (3A), Hinton (2A) and St. Albert (1A) will all be defending their state titles from 2025. Will they be able to repeat their success?
• Commentators will be highlighting players' futures at the next level, both in basketball and other sports/activities.

Why I love being an announcer for girls basketball:

I love announcing the IGHSAU state basketball tournament because I have experienced this iconic tournament from different perspectives. I grew up coming to the state tournament dreaming of playing here with my teammates, and I got the opportunity to play at the state tournament three times (state runner-up and back-to-back state champs). I have experienced this tournament as a coach twice and this is my fourth year getting to announce. I understand how much work and preparation goes into getting a team down here. Coming to Des Moines every March is very special for me to reminisce on the past but also getting to see young girls' dreams come true. I also get to work alongside the very talented Brad Wells who makes calling games so much fun.

Insights From Brad Wells

What to watch for:

• You're going to see some of the top talent in the nation, including two Top 100 Ranked players in Jenica Lewis (Johnston) and Averie Lower (Clear Creek-Amana).
• Expect the unexpected! Underdogs always have a chance. Cedar Rapids Xavier won the 4A title as an eighth seed just a year ago.
• Coaches will be mic'd up, so you'll get a chance to hear from the state's best coaches during the biggest moments.

Why I love being an announcer for girls basketball:

I love announcing the IGHSAU Girls State Basketball Championships because it showcases the best teams in the state playing their best basketball of the season. It's the final test after months of preparation and competition. The title games have individual moments that reflect the hard work players have put in over the course of the season and the entirety of their careers. I also get to work with the best scorer in Iowa girls basketball history, Elle Ruffridge, who brings her own wonderful perspective.

Insights From BJ Schaben

What to watch for:

• Talent - The state of Iowa has produced many impactful college and professional players over the years and this year could showcase some of the best ever at the state tournament, headlined by Johnston’s Jenica Lewis. She received her first Division I offer in sixth grade and collected over 60 before committing to Notre Dame. The senior class for the Johnston Dragons have an opportunity to finish with three straight state titles and over 100 wins in their careers.
• Tradition - From the All Iowa Dance Team, tuxedos to clean the court, Cooley’s  corner, the mascots, Celebration of Champions and Hall of Famers, plus the girls state tournament snowstorm, and most recently Paul Yeager’s pink suit on Saturday, it all makes the Iowa Girls State Basketball Tournament the BEST event in the state.  No other event in the state has this much packed in over the course of six days.
• The Iowa Girl - Throughout the week we get the chance to learn the stories of all these players and programs from across the state and see thousands of young athletes realize their dream of playing on the state's biggest stage. It’s why women’s sports are so popular and prestigious for our state.

Why I love being an announcer for girls basketball:

Ever since I can remember, the girls state basketball tournament has been a must-see event! To get the opportunity to be a part of history each year is so special and I take great honor and pride and being able to broadcast it. It’s my marquee event of the year.

Insights From Laura Leonard

What to watch for:

• Class 5A - Can Johnston pull off the three-peat?
• Class 3A - Can Mount Vernon win back-to-back championships?
• Class 1A - This might be the most competitive championship game of the entire tournament.

Why I love being an announcer for girls basketball:

Being an Iowa girl, and having grown up playing six-on-six basketball, it is an honor to be able to be a part of the history and great tradition of the best high school basketball tournament in the country.