Braintree American Little League’s postseason run ended Sunday with a 3–2 loss to Bonney Lake/Sumner Little League of Washington in an elimination game at the Little League World Series in South Williamsport, Pennsylvania. The New England champions scored twice in the second inning but could not overcome Washington’s early three-run surge, bowing out less than 24 hours after a comeback victory over the Southwest squad from Texas. The appearance marked Braintree’s first trip to the World Series in 72 years, galvanising local support that included early-morning watch parties and talk of a home-town parade. Despite the defeat, coaches and league officials hailed the 12-year-olds for placing the Massachusetts program back on the national stage. Separately, Little League International reiterated over the weekend that it “has no place” for betting on youth competitions, condemning wagering on tournament games amid rising interest from sportsbooks in amateur events.