D2 State Title: Massillon Washington 68, Westerville North 63
Warriors concede a strong second-half lead and fall to the Tigers in overtime
Written by 270 Hoops staff writer Greg Glasser
DAYTON, OH — Throughout the season, Westerville North head coach Shan Trusley would reiterate an honest message to his team, that what they have done and what they were in the midst of accomplishing is not normal.
He would refer to Westerville North winning a Division II state title in 2025 and having the opportunity to repeat again, as they took on Massillon Washington in front of 4,642 fans at UD Arena on Sunday.
Considering a Central Ohio team had not won back-to-back state titles since now-closed Columbus Wehrle did in 1989-90, Westerville North was in a position to make history.
“What they have accomplished is not normal, most kids never get to experience anything like this,” Trusley said. “To do this two years in a row, to get back to a state title game, it’s a special reflection of our kids and the hard work they put into this.”
Up against a Tigers team that had a mirrored 26-1 record, the Warriors indeed worked hard. But a difficult afternoon from the field where North shot 27% ultimately was too much to overcome as Massillon Washington prevailed 68-63 in overtime.
