Photo courtesy of Ryan Zeigler

Carterville Lions Softball ace Caidence Phillips made her college choice on Wednesday when she announced a verbal commitment to the University of Illinois.

The Lions star led her team to a second straight state title game appearance this past season.  After a 2024 state title run, Phillips and the Lions came in second this year.

Phillips was 24-1 this past season in 26 appearances with an ERA of 0.55 and 297 strikeouts.  She has a career ERA of 0.49 and 565 career strikeouts in 55 total appearances with a record of 44-2.