From 11-13 to Regionals: Westerville Central Wins District Championship

Columbus — The Westerville Central Warhawks may have finished the regular season with an 11-13 record, but when it mattered most, they rose to the occasion. Now, they are boys basketball district champions. For them, the postseason is what truly counts. “People don’t remember the regular season, they remember the playoffs,” Head Coach Max Shawver says.

Facing Worthington Kilbourne on Friday night, Westerville Central took the lead early and never looked back. Whether it was a key defensive stop, a forced turnover, or a timely basket, the Warhawks found ways to maintain control en route to a 59-50 victory over the Wolves.

Westerville Central’s defensive intensity was a difference-maker, forcing 15 turnovers, with 10 of them coming in the first half. Despite facing a physically larger Worthington Kilbourne squad, the Warhawks held their own on the boards, keeping the rebounding margin close at 19-17.

“They have big football guys that can rebound the basketball,” Shawver said. “We knew we had to be better on the boards, and we got away with it a little bit. I am proud of how we competed over 32 minutes.”

Senior Josh Henderson played a pivotal role in Westerville Central’s victory, finishing with 21 points. His impact was felt early and often, igniting the Warhawks’ offense by scoring their first seven points and later capping off the first half with an alley-oop dunk off a perfect feed from Amare Spiva.

Henderson’s 10 second-half points came at crucial moments, each one helping to keep Worthington Kilbourne at bay. In a 59-50 victory, the Warhawks needed every one of his baskets. Amare Spiva added 14 points, while Mason Gooden contributed 11.

Westerville Central Head Coach Max Shawver emphasized Henderson’s influence on the team, highlighting his leadership and growth.

“He is huge, and we roll the way that he rolls,” Shawver said. “He really was patient tonight and got others involved. I am so proud of the way he has matured this year.”

Westerville Central now faces district rival Westerville North in the regional semifinals next week. The Warhawks knew from the start that their playoff path could lead to a showdown with North.

“We knew when the draw took place that if we won a district title, we would likely run into North,” Shawver said. “They are a tremendous challenge, but we are going to do everything we can over the next few days to prepare and compete for 32 minutes.”

The two teams will clash in the Division II regional semifinals on Wednesday, March 5th, at 8 PM at the Ohio Expo Center in Columbus.