News Summary
The University of Pennsylvania men’s basketball team defeated Princeton University 61-60, ending a 14-game losing streak against their Ivy League rival. The game took place at The Palestra and highlighted the teams’ intense rivalry, balancing the all-time series at 127 wins each. Key performances from TJ Power and AJ Levine helped secure the victory, offering a renewed sense of momentum for the Quakers as they continue through their Ivy League schedule.
Philadelphia
In a thrilling contest that encapsulated the deep-rooted rivalry between the two institutions, the University of Pennsylvania men’s basketball team secured a hard-fought 61-60 victory over Princeton University on Saturday, February 7, 2026. The pivotal game, held at Penn’s historic home, The Palestra, marked a significant moment for the Quakers, ending a challenging 14-game losing streak against their Ivy League adversaries.
The Quakers’ triumph, achieved in front of an excited home crowd, not only leveled the all-time series between the two programs at 127 wins each but also provided a substantial boost to their standing in the Ivy League. Penn now holds an 11-10 overall record and a 4-4 conference record, matching Princeton’s 4-4 Ivy League standing, with the Tigers’ overall record falling to 8-15.
Game Decided in Final Moments
The highly anticipated matchup was a nail-biter from start to finish, with both teams exchanging blows and neither able to establish a dominant lead for extended periods. Penn notably maintained a lead for almost the entire second half, demonstrating resilience against a determined Princeton squad. However, the Tigers mounted a late rally, setting the stage for a dramatic conclusion.
With the game on the line, Princeton had possession in the final seconds, looking for a potential game-winning shot. Penn’s sophomore guard AJ Levine played crucial defense, closely guarding Princeton’s Dalen Davis and forcing him into a difficult fallaway jumper. The shot, which could have clinched victory for the Tigers, ultimately missed, sliding off the front of the rim as the final buzzer sounded, securing Penn’s narrow one-point win.
Key Performances Propel Quakers to Victory
Junior forward TJ Power led the scoring for the Quakers, delivering a stellar performance with 18 points and seven rebounds. His contribution included a clutch three-pointer from the deep corner with just 1:19 remaining, which ultimately provided Penn with the winning points. AJ Levine also made a significant impact, adding 13 points, three steals, and three assists, alongside his pivotal defensive play in the closing moments.
For Princeton, Jacob Huggins was a standout player, tying his career-high with a team-leading 14 points and grabbing six rebounds. He was supported by Malik Abdullahi, who contributed 12 points, an impressive 11 rebounds, and four assists, and Jackson Hicke, who added 10 points and nine rebounds. Despite these strong individual efforts, the Tigers were unable to overcome the Quakers’ late surge and defensive stand.
The Significance of the Rivalry
The Penn-Princeton rivalry is one of the most storied and intense in collegiate sports, particularly in basketball. This latest encounter, the 254th meeting between the two teams, lived up to its billing as a game “befitting the rivalry.” The atmosphere at The Palestra, affectionately known as the “Cathedral of College Basketball,” was electric, with a festive and excited crowd witnessing a historic moment for the Quakers. The venue itself is steeped in history, serving as the home gym for Penn’s basketball teams, with notable games and players celebrated within its walls.
For Penn, this victory extends beyond a single win; it represents the breaking of a significant losing streak against a formidable rival and offers a renewed sense of momentum as they navigate the remainder of their Ivy League schedule. The game highlighted the deep passion and competitive spirit that defines college basketball rivalries, often transcending team records and current standings.
Key Features of the Penn vs. Princeton Men’s Basketball Game
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date of Game | Saturday, February 7, 2026 |
| Winning Team | University of Pennsylvania |
| Final Score | Penn 61, Princeton 60 |
| Location | The Palestra, Philadelphia |
| Significance for Penn | Ended a 14-game losing streak against Princeton |
| All-Time Series Record | Tied at 127-127 |
| Top Scorer (Penn) | TJ Power (18 points) |
| Key Defensive Play | AJ Levine’s defense on Princeton’s final shot |
| Penn’s Record (Post-Game) | 11-10 overall, 4-4 Ivy League |
| Princeton’s Record (Post-Game) | 8-15 overall, 4-4 Ivy League |
| Nature of Rivalry | One of the most storied and intense in collegiate sports |
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Author: STAFF HERE PHILADELPHIA WRITER
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