The Eddyville-Blakesburg-Fremont (EBF) girls basketball team capped off an unforgettable 2025 season with an impressive run at the state tournament. The Rockets demonstrated resilience and determination as #1 team all season and getting everyone’s best shot from the first game at Pella Christian to their last game with Central Lyon in the state semi-finals. This core group has been a part a of unbelievable high school basketball run creating memories for themselves and our EBF community.
EBF Rockets celebrating thier quarter-final tournament win.
Reflecting on the tournament, Coach Fenton expressed his pride in the team’s efforts.
"It was a great experience," Fenton said. "We were able to get a victory in our first game over Treynor, building a 19-point lead in the fourth quarter and holding on for a seven-point victory. The fans were tremendous. We had a great turnout for our games, and the girls union put on a fantastic tournament."
The team’s journey included valuable bonding moments, including a practice session at Drake University and a team dinner at Texas Roadhouse. One memorable highlight was the unexpected encounter with Iowa football standout Cooper DeJean, who stopped by the court to meet the team.
For the senior class, this was their third state tournament appearance, and they approached it with confidence. The Rockets were prepared and excited, with the dream of reaching the finals within their grasp.
"We were pretty relaxed going into the first game, and after a slow start, we gained momentum in the second quarter to secure the win," Fenton noted. "The excitement of advancing to the semifinals kept our dream alive."
However, the semifinal matchup against Central Lyon proved to be a challenging contest. Despite EBF’s strong defense and determination, Central Lyon’s unexpected success from beyond the arc and dominant post presence shifted the game’s momentum.
"They came out firing and hit 5 of 9 three-pointers, four of which came in the second quarter," Fenton recalled. "We fought back to cut the lead to seven in the third quarter, but they answered with a six-point run. We didn’t have an answer for their post player and ended up putting them at the free throw line 25 times compared to our nine. That was the difference."
Although the season ended short of the finals, Fenton emphasized the pride he holds in his players.
"What a season. We set a school record with 25 wins and won 50 conference games in a row," he said. "Our seniors have left an incredible legacy, going 62-1 in the regular season over the last three years and 72-4 overall. They represented EBF with dedication and resilience."
The senior class’s impact cannot be overstated. Three players were four-year starters, and the team’s achievements included three state tournament appearances and four conference championships. Counting their freshman year, the class posted an impressive 90-10 record.
Fenton also took time to acknowledge those who contributed to the team’s success.
"I want to thank my wife, Denise, for her unwavering support. She has watched more game film than I have," he said with a smile. "I’m also grateful to the parents, especially the moms who coordinated meals during the postseason. And, of course, my assistant coaches, who provided invaluable advice and friendship. Our collaborative game plans were executed beautifully by the players."
Coach Fenton’s pride in the team is very evident.
"This is a season we will never forget. The memories we made will last a lifetime," he concluded.
I asked the seniors to provide me their thoughts and below are their comments.
Ava Eastlick: Eva for 3
The first time we made it to state my sophomore year is one of my favorite memories from my 4 years."
"Having the community and everyone behind us and there to support us meant alot to me in my years as a high school basketball player."
"At the state tournament the backdrop behind the hoops takes some getting used to, and I feel like sophomore year to senior season I got used to the backdrop and was able to improve there each year."
"My favorite memory of my 4 years of high school basketball was definitely being able to play with my best friends and make EBF history with them."
Kate Shafer: Kate for a left handed layup
"The state basketball tournament's atmosphere is different from every other game, the stands are filled with people cheering for you, and the environment is so intense. The level of play at the state tournament is so elevated, where every possession matters, making the games that much more fun and exciting to play in and watch.”
"The past four years with everyone has been so much fun, and I am so grateful the huge amount of community support that we have had over the years"
"This season was a record breaking season, with this group we made it to the state semifinals, even though it is not the perfect ending we wanted, it was so much fun to play and end our season at the state tournament."
Molly Shafer: Molly elevating above all players for 2
“The state tournament is always a fun environment to play in. There is a large portion of the community in the crowd cheering you on, which brings the intensity of the game to a whole new level. After our first win was SUPER exciting because after losing in the quarterfinals the past two years it was really rewarding to finally win a game at the state tournament. The Central Lyon game was a tough matchup, and I was honored to be able to represent EBF on the biggest stage. It was an amazing season and I am grateful to play with teammates who are even better people than they are basketball players. Also I wanted to thank the community, fans, school administration, parents, and coaches for all they do for us!”
Kaylee Helm: Kaylee for 3
“This season overall was an amazing season. It was definitely the most fun and exciting year of games and success for the team. I feel like we had a lot of good competition that helped to prepare us throughout the year and improve immensely. I think the greatest accomplishment we had was not only making it to the state tournament but winning the first round there. We'd made it 2 years before this year and lost the first round both times; it was a very fulfilling accomplishment to finally get a win and move our team name on the bracket. The state tournament as an entirety is always a fun experience with the pink lights, the pictures, and so much more. It's just such a cool experience and I am grateful and blessed to have been given the opportunity and privilege to compete at state in 3 sports in the past 3 years.”
Chloe Lyon: Chloe layup for 2
“My experience on the EBF basketball team is nothing less than memorable. The verisimilitude of being on such a special team is incredible. I am forever grateful to both EBF as a school and the sports teams for allowing me (as a homeschooler) to participate and be a part of this historical team. I am truly blessed to have been a small piece of the EBF girls basketball program.”
Kadence Heald: Kandence Cheering at the state tournament
“Watching the girls grow as a team on the court has really truly been the best experience. From the start of freshman year to the end of senior year I’ve watched these girls dedicate their time and work to this sport and watching them achieve their goals by making it to state 3 years in a row is truly the best feeling. I’m gonna miss these moments but it’s definitely been a fun ride.”
The EBF community stands proud of the Rockets, celebrating not only their success on the court but also the dedication, teamwork, and spirit they displayed throughout the season. Congratulations to the EBF girls basketball team on an outstanding 2025 season!
AVA moving EBF into the semi-finals on the state bracket.
EBF Cheerleaders
Coach Fenton talks strategy with his Rockets.
All eyes on Coach.
EBF Students supporting at theRockets at the State Basketball Tournament
Carla Scott is recognized as an EBF Top Fan and Supporter
Congratulations to our EBF Girls Basketball Team and community who supported them!!!