The WACO Warriors started the boys’ basketball postseason on the right note by defeating Pekin 57-42 last night in the first round of the Class 1A Substate 5 playoffs. A 17-12 lead in the first quarter would not grow beyond five points for WACO by halftime, but after stretching the lead to seven headed into the final period, the Warriors outscored Pekin 19-11 down the stretch to secure the win.

A monster scoring night for Colton Leichty led the way for WACO, as the senior scored a game-high and career-high 26 points, including hitting four three-point buckets. Fellow senior Chase Waterhouse added 16 points as the Warriors won their fourth straight and their ninth in the last 10 games to improve to 18-5. WACO will move on to face Burlington Notre Dame in the 1A District 9 semifinals Thursday.