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A Historic Run: North Polk Girls Basketball State Tournament Journey
The North Polk Girls Basketball team poses with the runner-up trophy following the Class 4A IGHSAU State Basketball Championship at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines on Saturday, March 8, 2025. Hunter Fleshner/North Polk CSD
March 11, 2025
A storied season.
The North Polk Girls Basketball team celebrates in the Class 4A IGHSAU State Basketball Semifinal at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Hunter Fleshner/North Polk CSD
It’s not every year that we have the privilege of sharing the story of a team’s ongoing success at the highest level, season after season. For the eighth time in the program's history — and the sixth time in the last eight seasons — the North Polk Girls Basketball team earned its spot in the Iowa Girls Basketball State Tournament.
Entering as the #2 seed, the Comets began their state tournament journey in the quarterfinals against Sioux Center. What started as a tight, back-and-forth contest soon turned into a thrilling comeback. After a 12-0 run in the third quarter, the Comets found themselves trailing with just over 90 seconds left on the clock. But the Comets never shied away. Fayth Sullivan delivered a clutch 3-pointer, and senior teammate Jada Podey came up with two critical steals in the final seconds. The Comets held on for a 47-45 victory, advancing to the semifinals.
In the 4A semifinals, fans were treated to an exciting rematch between North Polk and DCG. A matchup Iowa High School basketball fans are very familiar with — a repeat of the 2023 state championship game and the 2024 quarterfinals. However, this time, the Comets were in control from start to finish. Fueled by an outstanding performance from all players, including Greta Dillinger, who set a new state tournament record with seven made three-pointers, the Comets defeated the Mustangs 52-30.
Greta Dillinger celebrates after making a three point basket in the Class 4A IGHSAU State Basketball Semifinal at Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines on Thursday, March 6, 2025. Hunter Fleshner/North Polk CSD
In the much-anticipated championship game, North Polk faced the Xavier Saints, who had lots of momentum, coming off of two big wins earlier in the week. The Comets started strong, controlling much of the first quarter, but despite their best efforts, they fell short, with the Saints securing the title with a 66-47 win. The Comets concluded the season as the 4A State Runner-Up, wrapping up an impressive campaign with a 24-3 record. For photos of the entire tournament, be sure to visit our Flickr gallery.
A Legacy of Excellence
This incredible journey wouldn’t have been possible without the leadership and dedication of our senior class. Over the past four years, they have set the standard for excellence, paving the way for future generations of Comets. Their contributions have been monumental — helping lead the team to three consecutive state tournament appearances, including one semifinal finish and two runner-up finishes. On top of that, they’ve led the team to an outstanding 50-game conference winning streak.
The class of 2025 leaves behind an incredible legacy, with an 88-14 record over the last four years. As they move on to the next chapter, they have set the bar high for years to come.