Lady Trojans Hold Off Gwynedd Mercy to Advance in State Playoffs
By: Matt Flanagan | SportzWire | March 7, 2026 | Photo courtesy Michael Eckrote
GWYNEDD VALLEY — North Pocono earned a hard-fought road victory Saturday afternoon, defeating Gwynedd Mercy 42–35 in the opening round of the PIAA Class 5A girls basketball state playoffs.
The Lady Trojans battled through a tight contest early, taking a narrow 9–8 lead after the first quarter before extending their advantage in the second. North Pocono carried a 25–15 lead into halftime, using strong defensive pressure and timely scoring to build separation.
Gwynedd Mercy attempted to rally in the fourth quarter, outscoring North Pocono 15–9 in the final frame, but the Lady Trojans held firm down the stretch to secure the seven-point victory.
Ella Clementoni led North Pocono with 16 points, knocking down a three-pointer while going 5-for-6 from the free-throw line. Anna Clementoni added 10 points, while Celia DeCesare contributed 8 points and Trinity Litts chipped in 2 to round out the scoring effort.
North Pocono capitalized at the free-throw line throughout the game, finishing 13-for-21, which proved to be a key factor in the win.
Gwynedd Mercy was led by Chloe McCarthy, who scored 12 points, while Brooke Evans added 10 and Brenna Tronoski finished with 5.
With the victory, North Pocono advances to the Round of 16 in the PIAA Class 5A state playoffs, where the Lady Trojans will face the winner of Archbishop Wood and Sun Valley on Wednesday at a site to be determined.
Facebook
Instagram
Twitter / X
YouTube
