Sparta Spartans Defeat Voorhees, Advance to H/W/S Finals

Sophomore Kaelyn Sabanosh's career-high 20 points lead Sparta to victory over Voorhees in the H/W/S semifinals.

Published on Feb. 16, 2026

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The Sparta girls basketball team defeated Voorhees 51-44 in the H/W/S semifinals, led by a career-high 20 points from sophomore Kaelyn Sabanosh. Sparta took an early lead thanks to Sabanosh's three-point shooting and held on for the win, locking up the third seed for the NJSIAA North Jersey, Section 1, Group 3 state tournament.

Why it matters

Sparta's victory over Voorhees extends their winning streak to 11 games and sets up a championship matchup against top-seeded Pope John on Friday. The Spartans are looking to win their second H/W/S title in as many seasons.

The details

Sparta took a 12-7 lead in the first quarter thanks to consecutive three-pointers from Sabanosh. Voorhees kept the game close throughout, but Sparta pulled away in the fourth quarter with timely free throws and a fast-paced offense. Sabanosh led all scorers with 20 points, including five three-pointers. Strong defense from Kayla Barreau limited Voorhees' second-chance opportunities.

  • Sparta took a 12-7 lead in the first quarter.
  • Heading into the fourth quarter, Sparta led 35-32.
  • Sparta will face Pope John in the H/W/S championship game on Friday, February 20 at 7 p.m.

The players

Kaelyn Sabanosh

A sophomore on the Sparta girls basketball team who scored a career-high 20 points in the win over Voorhees, including five three-pointers.

Kayla Barreau

A Sparta player who played strong defense, limiting Voorhees' second-chance opportunities.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

What’s next

Sparta will face top-seeded Pope John on Friday, February 20 at 7 p.m. at Hackettstown High School for the H/W/S championship.

The takeaway

Sparta's victory over Voorhees extends their impressive winning streak to 11 games and sets up a highly anticipated championship matchup against Pope John. Sophomore Kaelyn Sabanosh's career-high performance was a key factor in the Spartans' success, showcasing the team's depth and potential for a deep postseason run.