Rootstown Girls Basketball Surges Ahead of Playoffs

Rootstown's up-tempo style and deep roster have the team primed for a postseason run.

Published on Feb. 28, 2026

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The Rootstown High School girls basketball team is riding high heading into the OHSAA playoffs, finishing the regular season with an 18-3 record. Led by a fast-paced, team-oriented style of play, the Rovers have multiple players who can contribute on both ends of the floor, creating a relentless and cohesive unit.

Why it matters

Rootstown's success this season has generated excitement in the community and high expectations for a deep playoff run. The team's up-tempo style and balanced scoring attack make them a dangerous opponent for any opponent they face in the postseason.

The details

Rootstown's assistant coach Brian Layton constantly encourages the players to "go, go, go" as they push the pace and crash the boards. The Rovers have a deep roster with standouts like Cloe Bengtson, Colbie Curall, and Elliott Smallfield all contributing in different ways to the team's success.

  • Rootstown finished the regular season with an 18-3 record.

The players

Brian Layton

Rootstown's assistant coach who emphasizes the team's up-tempo style of play.

Cloe Bengtson

A key player for the Rootstown girls basketball team.

Colbie Curall

A standout player who contributes to Rootstown's success.

Elliott Smallfield

Another Rootstown player who helps the team with its balanced scoring attack.

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What they’re saying

“If you ever forget anything, if you ever forget how we play as a team, you will always be reminded,”

— Brian Layton, Rootstown Assistant Coach (Record-Courier)

What’s next

The Rootstown girls basketball team will look to carry their strong regular season momentum into the OHSAA playoffs, where they will aim to make a deep postseason run.

The takeaway

Rootstown's up-tempo, team-first style of play has propelled them to an impressive 18-3 regular season record, setting the stage for a potentially exciting playoff push. The Rovers' balanced scoring attack and relentless defensive pressure make them a formidable opponent for any team they face in the postseason.