Spring-Ford Triumphs Over Pope John Paul II to Secure PAC Championship

Spring-Ford High School reclaimed the Pioneer Athletic Conference (PAC) championship on February 10, 2026, defeating Pope John Paul II (PJP) 55-41. The victory marked the Rams’ first PAC title since 2023, following two disappointing seasons where they exited the playoffs in heart-wrenching fashion.

The championship game, held at Spring-Ford’s home court, was tightly contested until the fourth quarter. Leading by a mere three points as the final period began, Spring-Ford’s senior guard Jack Kennedy ignited the team with a key three-pointer just 70 seconds in, setting off a decisive 13-4 run. This surge gave the Rams a comfortable 43-31 lead with 2:40 left in the game.

Throughout this critical stretch, Spring-Ford showcased its defensive prowess. The Rams managed to force two turnovers and restricted PJP to just two successful shots out of eight attempts in the fourth quarter. Notably, the Golden Panthers also struggled at the free-throw line, failing to convert any of their five attempts during this time.

Kennedy, who led all scorers with 20 points, highlighted the team’s defensive focus. “We all really dialed in,” he said. “Everyone was focused and dialed in.” Senior teammate Syaire Barnes echoed this sentiment, noting that their coach emphasized the importance of defense before the game. “You can’t go out and play your best offense every night. That was our intention – to go play the hardest defense,” he remarked.

Spring-Ford’s success at the charity stripe also played a crucial role in the win. The team converted an impressive 16 of 17 free throws in the fourth quarter, including a perfect six-for-six from Kennedy, who stated that improving their free-throw shooting had been a major focus throughout the season.

The Rams took control of the game during the second quarter, executing a 13-1 run that shifted momentum. From a 15-10 deficit, they surged ahead to a 23-16 halftime lead, a stretch spearheaded by Barnes, who assisted on four of the six baskets during this pivotal sequence.

After halftime, PJP attempted to rally back, narrowing the gap to just one point with back-to-back three-pointers from Jason Green and Jack Kessler. However, Spring-Ford quickly responded with baskets from Matteo Magazollo and Bryce Robinson, maintaining a five-point edge.

In total, Kennedy contributed 20 points for Spring-Ford, while Robinson added nine points and Jackson Wickersham chipped in with eight points. For the Golden Panthers, Green led with 15 points, followed by Ayden Wise with 12 points and Kessler with eight points.

As both teams prepare for the upcoming District 1 playoffs, Spring-Ford, seeded seventh in Class-6A, will host the winner of the contest between No. 10 Conestoga and No. 23 West Chester Henderson. Meanwhile, PJP, the top seed in Class-4A, will face No. 4 Lower Moreland.

The final score of the championship game was Spring-Ford 55, Pope John Paul II 41, with the Rams demonstrating a formidable combination of offense and defense that ultimately secured their place as PAC champions once again.