GLEN CARBON – Father McGivney Catholic used a fast start and a strong second half to end Gillespie’s season Monday night, Feb. 23, 2026, beating the Miners 56-39 in a Carlinville Regional semifinal game at Father McGivney. Carson Barone led the Griffins, pouring in 24 points.
McGivney, the No. 5 seed, led 26-22 at halftime before pulling away after the break to eliminate Gillespie. The Griffins improved to 19-13 and will play host Carlinville, the No. 4 seed, in a regional semifinal game at 7:30 p.m. on Wednesday. The 19 wins for the Griffins are the most in boys basketball history.
The Griffins’ Chase Jansen added 11 points, and Owen Kolesa scored 10 points.
Coach Cory Clouser said the victory was significant for his Griffins team.
“It was a big win for our boys,” Coach Clouser said. “We have come a long way. The core group of three seniors definitely led the way, with Carson Barone and the juniors and sophomores. It has been a true team effort all season long with several different leading scorers in games.”
Coach Clouser also pointed to the early tone McGivney set against Gillespie as a key.
“We led from the start and controlled the game,” he said. “Any time you win in a post-season game in Class 2A, it is a big win.”
McGivney will face a new challenge in the semifinal game against Carlinville, Clouser said, calling the Cavaliers.
“They are a very physical team,” he said. “We have to go there, so it is a true road game. They start all seniors, and they spend a lot of time in the weight room. Many of their players also play football. We have to be tough mentally going into the game.”
