Middletown North Edges Out Barnegat in Tight Non-Conference Girls Hoops Battle

Despite a late surge from Carly Manna, Barnegat High School girls' basketball team falls short against Middletown North, 58-53.

Published on Feb. 14, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

In a close non-conference girls' basketball matchup, Middletown North defeated Barnegat High School 58-53, despite a strong fourth-quarter comeback effort from the Bengals. Middletown North's inside-out duo of Kaelyn Gibson and Danielle Gonzalez each scored 18 points to lead the Lions, while Barnegat's Carly Manna poured in 15 points in a losing effort.

Why it matters

This game highlights the competitive nature of high school girls' basketball in the region, with two teams battling hard for the win. Barnegat's late surge showed their resilience, while Middletown North's ability to hold on for the victory demonstrated their balanced scoring attack.

The details

Middletown North established a slim 26-20 lead at halftime, then extended their advantage in the third quarter. However, Barnegat refused to go away, led by Carly Manna's 15 points and Jayla Duff's 13 points. The Bengals' aggressive play earned them 22 free throw attempts, but Middletown North's 16-of-27 shooting from the line ultimately helped them seal the 58-53 win.

  • Middletown North led 26-20 at halftime.
  • Middletown North extended their lead in the third quarter.

The players

Kaelyn Gibson

A key player for Middletown North, scoring a team-high 18 points.

Danielle Gonzalez

Middletown North's other 18-point scorer, forming an inside-out duo with Gibson.

Carly Manna

Barnegat's leading scorer with 15 points, sparking their late comeback effort.

Jayla Duff

Contributed 13 points for Barnegat in the losing effort.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

The takeaway

This close game showcases the competitive spirit of high school girls' basketball in the region, with both teams battling hard until the final whistle. Barnegat's late surge demonstrated their resilience, while Middletown North's balanced scoring attack and free throw shooting proved to be the difference in the end.