Full Breakdown
Nevada’s Paseo Verde Falls Short in Little League World Series Championship
9/1/2026, 2:04:44 AM
Path to the Final
Paseo Verde Little League from Henderson, Nevada, advanced to the Little League World Series (LLWS) championship after winning the United States title. The team became the first Nevada squad to reach back-to-back LLWS finals, a feat not seen since Georgia’s 2006-07 appearances. In the previous season, Nevada’s representative lost to Taiwan in the title game.
Defensive Highlights and Records
Throughout the tournament, Paseo Verde set a new LLWS defensive benchmark by turning six double plays, tying the tournament record. The team matched a three-double-play mark in the U.S. championship game—a record last achieved by Auburn, Washington, in 2010.
Key Statistics
- Approximately 6,000 U.S. Little League teams vie for the 20-team LLWS field each year.
- Nevada’s championship game ended in an 11-2 loss to Curaçao.
- Paseo Verde surrendered 11 runs on 12 hits, the most allowed in a single LLWS game for the team.
- The team recorded three double plays in the U.S. title game and two more in the championship, contributing to the six-play tournament total.
Manager Cory Edwards’ Remarks
Edwards emphasized the extensive commitment required to compete at this level, noting the early-morning practices and repetitive field work. He reflected on the team’s execution, citing missed signs and communication breakdowns that led to extra-base hits for Curaçao. Despite the loss, Edwards expressed hope that the players will carry forward the lessons learned and cherish the experience.
Player and Community Reactions
Players and coaches appeared dejected after the final but remained proud of their journey. Community members described the atmosphere at Howard J. Lamade Stadium as “magical,” highlighting the lasting impact of the tournament on the young athletes. Former Henderson manager Ryan Gifford and Summerlin South manager TJ Fechser both underscored the significance of the LLWS experience for the children, calling it a “rite of passage” and a “bittersweet” moment.
Verbatim Quotes
- “You have to wake up early, you have to get to the field, you have to put the reps in,” — Cory Edwards, manager
- “I think it says that we have a lot of smart people making good moves to make programs better,” — Cory Edwards, manager
- “Gut instinct was to bring in Brooks (McFarland) and not let Logan go back out,” — Cory Edwards, manager
- “I also just didn’t think that we executed well, running into an out at third, we’re missing a couple signs, missed communications with pitch calling,” — Cory Edwards, manager
- “I hope they learn a lot from this experience,” — Cory Edwards, manager
- “You know, it’s about the whole thing, really,” — Ryan Gifford
