Dramatic 1st Round Win Keeps Championship Hopes Alive

Dramatic 1st Round Win Keeps Championship Hopes Alive
February 16, 2026

McKeesport, Pa. — In a thrilling double-overtime battle at Wunderly Gym, Penn State Greater Allegheny outlasted Penn State New Kensington, 73–71, on Sunday afternoon.

The victory moves Greater Allegheny to 11-13 on the season, while New Kensington falls to 2-16.

Back-and-Forth Battle

New Kensington jumped out to an early advantage, taking a 34–25 lead into halftime. Greater Allegheny responded with resilience in the second half, outscoring the visitors 32–23 to force overtime tied at 57.

The teams traded baskets in the first overtime period, each scoring eight points. In the second extra frame, Greater Allegheny made key defensive stops and timely free throws to secure the two-point victory.

Key Performers – Greater Allegheny

Jordan Poole led the way with 19 points and eight rebounds across 48 minutes of action.

Elijah Hannon delivered a strong interior presence with 18 points and 11 rebounds, recording a double-double in 50 minutes.

Achilles Tucker-Turner added 13 points and 11 rebounds, giving Greater Allegheny a second double-double effort.

Xavier Gaffney contributed 11 points and four assists, while Biagio Crossley chipped in nine points.

Greater Allegheny controlled the glass, outrebounding New Kensington 43–39, including 11 offensive rebounds that created second-chance opportunities.

Key Performers – New Kensington

Jadyn Benson paced all scorers with 25 points and 15 rebounds in 50 minutes. Ta'Rasi Means added 14 points, while Myles Griffith provided a spark off the bench with 13 points, including three three-pointers.

By the Numbers

  • FG%: Greater Allegheny 41.8% | New Kensington 41.3%

  • Rebounds: Greater Allegheny 43 | New Kensington 39

  • Turnovers: Greater Allegheny 11 | New Kensington 12

  • Overtime Points: Greater Allegheny 16 | New Kensington 14

Greater Allegheny's composure in crunch time proved decisive, as the Lions executed down the stretch in both overtime periods to secure the hard-fought home victory.

Penn State Greater Allegheny move on to the quarterfinals on Tuesday at Penn State Beaver at 8pm.