Basketball box scores, other sports results for Monday, February 23, 2026; Playoff basketball schedule

February 24, 2026 - 04:19

A dramatic semifinal clash in the WPIAL Class 6A boys basketball playoffs saw New Castle advance with a narrow 52-49 victory over Central Catholic on Monday night. The game was a tense battle from start to finish, with New Castle managing to hold off a determined Central Catholic squad in the final moments.

The scoring was tight throughout the contest. Central Catholic held a slim 32-30 lead at halftime after a strong second quarter, but the momentum shifted decisively in the third. New Castle's defense clamped down, limiting their opponents to just six points in the period to seize control. Despite a late push from Central Catholic in the fourth quarter, New Castle made crucial plays down the stretch to secure their spot in the championship final.

The victory sends New Castle forward in their pursuit of a district title, capping a night of high-stakes playoff action. The team's ability to execute under pressure in the second half proved to be the difference in this evenly matched contest.