Emerson takes bi-district win over Reedy in double overtime

Third-place teams from different districts battle in close playoff matchup

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

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A pair of third-place finishers from different districts, Emerson and Reedy, faced off in a close bi-district playoff game that went to double overtime before Emerson emerged victorious.

Why it matters

The game highlighted the competitive nature of the playoffs, where teams that finished in third place during the regular season can still battle it out for a chance to advance further in the postseason.

The details

Despite the similar resumes of the two teams, the game was a hard-fought affair that went down to the wire. Emerson, the third-place finisher from District 11-5A, took on Reedy, the third-place team from District 12-5A, at Lebanon Trail High School. The game was tied at the end of regulation and required two overtime periods before Emerson was able to pull out the victory.

  • The game was played on Tuesday, February 18, 2026.

The players

Emerson

The third-place finisher from District 11-5A.

Reedy

The third-place finisher from District 12-5A.

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What they’re saying

“One of the main reasons I'm playing basketball this year is for my teammates. I want to win for my teammates. To give up on them Team wins are everything.”

— Anonymous Emerson player (Plano Star Courier)

What’s next

Emerson will advance to the next round of the playoffs to face the winner of another bi-district matchup.

The takeaway

The close battle between the two third-place teams showcased the competitive nature of the high school basketball playoffs, where any team can pull off an upset on a given night regardless of their regular season record.