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Craig Upsets West in Playoffs

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2026/03/02/craig-upsets-west-in-playoffs.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, March 2nd 2026 at 22:04 GMT by Madison.com
      Locales: Wisconsin, UNITED STATES

JANESVILLE, WI - March 3rd, 2026 - The Madison West Regents boys basketball team saw their 2025-2026 season end abruptly Tuesday night with a decisive 71-46 loss to the Janesville Craig Cobblers in the first round of the WIAA Division 1 playoffs. While the final score tells a story of defeat for West, it also underscores a potential changing of the guard in Wisconsin high school basketball, and highlights the growing strength of programs like Janesville Craig.

The game, played at Janesville's North High School, wasn't particularly close from the opening tip. Janesville Craig exhibited a potent offensive attack coupled with a commanding presence on the boards, effectively stifling any attempt by Madison West to establish a consistent scoring threat. West struggled to find their footing offensively, unable to break through Craig's determined defense and consistently secure second-chance points.

Marcus Banks of Janesville Craig was the undisputed star of the night, leading all players with an impressive 25-point performance. Banks, a junior guard widely considered a rising talent, demonstrated a diverse skillset, consistently driving to the basket and hitting from beyond the arc. Observers noted his court vision and ability to create opportunities for teammates, signaling a player with considerable collegiate potential. College scouts were reportedly in attendance, and Banks' performance undoubtedly bolstered his recruitment profile.

Malik Hunter of Madison West provided a bright spot for the Regents, scoring 18 points in a losing effort. Hunter, a senior, delivered a strong performance in his final high school game, showcasing his scoring prowess. However, his individual efforts weren't enough to overcome the overwhelming team performance of the Cobblers.

This loss caps off a season where Madison West finished with a record of 13-11. While a winning record, it represents a slight dip in performance compared to previous seasons where the Regents were consistently competing for conference titles. Analysts point to a changing roster dynamic and a challenging conference schedule as contributing factors.

Craig's Ascendance: A Program on the Rise

Janesville Craig's victory isn't merely a single playoff win; it's a culmination of years of dedicated coaching and player development. Head Coach David Olsen, in his fifth year leading the Cobblers, has instilled a culture of hard work, discipline, and team play. Olsen, formerly an assistant coach at the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, has implemented a sophisticated offensive system and a relentless defensive strategy.

The Cobblers' success extends beyond Banks' individual brilliance. They boast a balanced roster with several key contributors, including senior forward Ethan Miller, known for his rebounding and defensive tenacity, and sophomore point guard Olivia Chen, who provides crucial ball-handling and playmaking skills. Their team chemistry and ability to execute under pressure were evident throughout the game against West.

Looking Ahead: What This Means for Wisconsin High School Basketball

The landscape of Wisconsin high school basketball is becoming increasingly competitive. Historically, programs from the Milwaukee and Madison areas have dominated the Division 1 playoffs. However, teams from smaller cities like Janesville are beginning to emerge as legitimate contenders. This trend suggests a broadening of talent across the state and a potential shift in the traditional power structure.

Madison West will need to refocus on rebuilding their program, emphasizing player development and fostering a strong team culture. They face the challenge of replacing key seniors and integrating a new group of players into their system. The Regents will likely focus on strengthening their interior game and improving their defensive rebounding in the offseason.

The Janesville Craig Cobblers, meanwhile, are poised for a deep playoff run. With a talented roster and a dedicated coaching staff, they are a team to watch in the coming weeks. Their next opponent will be [Opponent to be determined], and they are widely considered a favorite to advance to the sectional finals. The Cobblers' success serves as an inspiration to other programs across the state, demonstrating that with hard work and dedication, anything is possible.