Algona Community School District

 

Girls Basketball Continues Dominance

- - - February 16, 2026 - - -

 
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Algona Bulldogs Advance to Regional Semifinals After Dominant 71-13 Victory

 

The Algona Bulldogs girls' basketball team (19-4) secured a commanding victory in the opening round of tournament play, defeating Southeast Valley 71-13 on Saturday, February 14. Competing on their home court at the Algona High School Gymnasium, the Bulldogs showcased the defensive intensity and balanced scoring that have defined their impressive 2025-26 campaign.

Under the leadership of Head Coach Noel McLaughlin, the Bulldogs jumped to an early lead and never looked back, holding Southeast Valley to just 13 points in a complete team effort. The win moves Algona one step closer to the state tournament as they prepare for a highly anticipated regional showdown.

 

Stat Leaders and Key Performers

The Bulldogs' success this season has been fueled by a mix of veteran leadership and breakout young talent. Key statistical leaders heading into the postseason include:

  • Hayden McLaughlin (Junior): The team’s leading scorer (pictured right), averaging 14.5 points per game. McLaughlin has been a consistent threat from the perimeter while also averaging 5.2 rebounds.
  • Kate Limbaugh (Freshman): A dominant force in the paint, Limbaugh leads the team in rebounding with an average of 9.2 boards per game while contributing 14.4 points.
  • Bella Jo Dunning (Junior): A versatile playmaker averaging 10.8 points and providing a spark on both ends of the floor.
  • Taylor VanOtterloo (Junior): The primary facilitator for the Bulldog offense, leading the team with 3.9 assists per game.
 

Next Matchup: Battle of the 19-4 Records

The Bulldogs will remain at home for the next round of tournament play, hosting a formidable Clear Lake team on Wednesday, February 18, at 7:00 PM.

This matchup promises to be one of the most exciting of the regional bracket, as both teams enter the contest with identical 19-4 records. The Bulldogs will look to avenge a regular-season loss to the Lions and utilize their home-court advantage to punch their ticket to the next round.