EDWARDSVILLE — Granite City girls basketball coach Ron Twichell has watched his team turn a season into what he called a “feel-good story” as the Warriors head into the postseason after reaching 20 wins for the first time since 2010-11.
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Twichell, a veteran coach and a 1982 all-state player for Alton, led Granite City to its first 20-win season since 2010-11 and only the fourth 20-win season in program history.
The Warriors open the postseason Saturday night at home against Belleville West in a play-in game of the West regional, with second-seed Belleville East awaiting the winner.
“It should be a good game, for everybody that’s looking at us," Twichell said of the game against Belleville West. "The Granite City girls' season is a feel-good story, don’t you think? I’m proud of them for that. You can’t help but be proud of them.”
Twichell said the team’s approach has been defined by unselfish play and hard work, calling it a point of emphasis throughout the season.
“It has been a great season, because everybody all year has played unselfishly,” he said.
Granite City’s postseason opener comes with a familiar challenge, Twichell said, as the Warriors prepare to face Belleville West again.
“Well, it’s always hard to beat a team three times in one year,” Twichell said. “So, we have to be ready to go.”
Twichell spoke Thursday night, Feb. 12, 2026, after the Edwardsville-Granite game, reflecting on the season and the team’s progress.
“How can you not be happy for the girls after this year?” Twichell asked. “It has been tremendous — the season overall. As I said, it’s a feel-good story, and I’m feeling good about it.”
