Allentown, PA, February 4, 2026
The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference launches its basketball tournaments, featuring a groundbreaking play-in game for girls. Dieruff and Liberty will compete for a spot in the tournament, marking a historic moment for high school basketball. As fans prepare for the thrilling atmosphere, the tournaments highlight the dedication of students and communities. With Parkland dominating the boys’ seeding, the excitement builds around the upcoming games culminating at the PPL Center.
EPC Basketball Tournaments Kick Off with Historic Play-In Game
This year’s tournament introduces a groundbreaking play-in game for girls, setting the stage for an intense postseason.
Allentown, PA – The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference (EPC) is gearing up for an exciting basketball postseason as it unveils the pairings for the boys’ and girls’ tournaments set to commence this Friday. This year, the women’s bracket features a historical twist: the introduction of a play-in game, which adds fresh intrigue and competition as teams vie for a coveted spot in the tournament. The EPC is well-known for its commitment to fostering not only athletic prowess but also academic excellence, making these tournaments a culmination of hard work and dedication.
The upcoming tournaments promise to showcase the very best in young athletic talent across the region. High school teams have spent the season building toward this moment, and community pride runs high as they prepare for the exhilarating atmosphere of playoff basketball. It’s a time when each layup, three-pointer, and defensive stand has the power to uplift not just the players, but entire schools and neighborhoods.
Historic Girls’ Play-In Game
The highlight of this year’s girls’ basketball tournament will undoubtedly be the play-in game between the Dieruff and Liberty teams. This marks the first time in EPC history that a play-in game will take place, a move designed to enhance competitive opportunities and ensure that more teams can participate in the postseason. The energy around this matchup is palpable as both teams prepare for an outcome that will impact their season significantly.
Boys’ Tournament Seeding
On the boys’ side, the Parkland team has claimed the top seed for this year’s tournament, setting itself up as a formidable contender as the playoffs get underway. As teams look to knock off the number one seed, Parkland will need to showcase the same level of excellence that earned them this prime position. Fans can anticipate thrilling matchups with many schools eager to prove their parochial prowess.
Tournament Schedule
The EPC basketball tournaments will kick off on Friday night, with fans and families excited to gather at local arenas. The girls’ play-in game is set to happen on Wednesday, giving these two teams a chance to secure their place in the official bracket. It’s an electrifying time for all involved as the tournaments are scheduled to conclude with the championship games at the PPL Center on Thursday, February 12, 2026. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, the PPL Center is an ideal venue for the culmination of the season’s hard work.
Background on the EPC
The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference is dedicated to not only organizing sports tournaments but also nurturing student-athletes in both academics and athletics. The EPC showcases a rich competition landscape, providing students with opportunities to develop skills, build character, and foster teamwork. The introduction of the girls’ play-in game exactly reflects this ethos, enhancing the level of competition while offering every team a fair chance to partake in the postseason experience.
Ticket Information
Tickets for the championship games at the PPL Center are available for purchase now, with general admission priced at $8.00. Seniors, aged 65 and over, can attend for free with a valid ID, while children aged 4 and under can also enjoy complimentary entry with the requirement of a complimentary ticket for entry. These tickets can be obtained through the PPL Center’s official website or directly at the venue’s box office, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to support their local teams.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming EPC basketball tournaments promise a showcase of talent, determination, and community spirit. It’s a call to all fans and community members to show up, support their local teams, and be part of the excitement that high school sports deliver. Don’t miss the chance to witness young athletes rise to the occasion in their quest for championship glory.
FAQ
What is the EPC?
The Eastern Pennsylvania Conference is a collective of high schools in the region, committed to fostering academic and athletic excellence.
When do the EPC basketball tournaments begin?
The tournaments will begin on Friday night, with the girls’ play-in game taking place on Wednesday.
Where will the championship games be held?
The championship games will be held at the PPL Center on Thursday, February 12, 2026.
How can I purchase tickets for the championship games?
Tickets can be purchased through the PPL Center’s official website or at the QNB Box Office at the venue. General admission tickets are priced at $8.00.
Are there any discounts for senior citizens or children?
Senior citizens (ages 65 and over) can attend for free with a valid ID. Children aged 4 and under are also free but require a complimentary ticket for entry, which can be secured with the purchase of a general admission ticket.
Key Features
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Allentown, PA |
| Event | EPC Boys’ and Girls’ Basketball Tournaments |
| Start Date | Friday night |
| Girls’ Play-In Game | Wednesday |
| Championship Games | Thursday, February 12, 2026, at PPL Center |
| Top Boys’ Seed | Parkland |
| Ticket Price | $8.00 for general admission |
| Senior Citizens Admission | Free with valid ID (ages 65 and over) |
| Children Admission | Free for ages 4 and under with complimentary ticket |
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