Carson Barone Leads Father McGivney With 24 Points In Regional Win Over Gillespie
The Griffins secured a 56-39 win over Gillespie, showcasing a strong start and second half in the Carlinville Regional semifinal game.
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.
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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."
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