In a matchup of 2025 state tournament teams, Parkersburg (6-1) pulled away late to secure a 56-38 victory over Morgantown (7-3). The game was a tight defensive battle tied at 36 early in the fourth quarter, but the Big Reds exploded for a 20-2 run over the final 5:30. Parkersburg’s defense was the deciding factor, allowing just one field goal in that span and holding the Mohigans scoreless for the final four minutes. Head coach Chris Murray called it the team’s best defensive effort of the year, as they held Morgantown to a season-low point total against an in-state opponent.

Senior Kennedy Porter led the charge for Parkersburg with a game-high 18 points, scoring 12 in the second half, while Frances Guice added 12 points. Morgantown, playing without injured starters Brenna Nelson and Kayli Kellogg, managed to keep the game close for three quarters, trailing only 30-28 heading into the fourth after a buzzer-beating 3-pointer. Madison Ancell paced the Mohigans with 14 points, and Sydney Deuesenberry contributed 13.

The two teams will face off again on January 30 in the Battle for the Springhouse semifinals at The Greenbrier. Coach Murray emphasized the value of these high-stakes games, noting that playing tough competition—rather than blowing out weaker opponents—is essential for the team to evaluate their performance, avoid complacency, and improve for the postseason.