Southmoreland Edges Wash High in WPIAL Playoff Thriller

Scotties rally late to win first-round matchup

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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Southmoreland High School's boys basketball team jumped out to an early lead, but Washington High School fought back and took a two-point advantage after three quarters. However, Southmoreland was able to pull out a 63-58 victory in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.

Why it matters

This hard-fought playoff game showcases the competitive nature of high school basketball in the Western Pennsylvania Interscholastic Athletic League (WPIAL), one of the top basketball regions in the state. The outcome has major implications for both teams' postseason aspirations.

The details

Southmoreland built an early lead, but Washington battled back and took a 2-point edge heading into the fourth quarter. However, the Scotties were able to rally late and secure the 63-58 victory in the opening round of the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs.

  • The game took place on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.
  • Southmoreland and Washington High Schools competed in the first round of the WPIAL Class 3A boys basketball playoffs.

The players

Southmoreland High School

The Southmoreland Scotties are the boys basketball team representing Southmoreland High School, located in Alverton, Pennsylvania.

Washington High School

The Washington High School Prexies are the boys basketball team representing Washington High School, located in Washington, Pennsylvania.

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What’s next

Southmoreland will advance to the next round of the WPIAL Class 3A playoffs, while Washington High School's season has come to an end.

The takeaway

This close playoff matchup between Southmoreland and Washington High Schools demonstrates the intense competition and high stakes of WPIAL basketball, where every possession and every point can make the difference between advancing or going home.