The NJISAA Prep B Tournament got its biggest shock of the season when No. 8–seed Pennington marched into Princeton and stunned top-seeded Princeton Day School in a statement upset that punched the Red Hawks’ ticket to the semifinals.

From the opening tip, Pennington played like anything but an underdog. Senior captains Caiden O’Connell and Anna-Kaisa Hokkanen set the competitive edge early—just as they have all season with their relentless work rate and leadership. O’Connell sparked the attack with five assists and seven boards, while Kaisa-Hokkanen powered in 10 points, added two assists, and swiped two steals to keep PDS on its heels.

Junior Sara Surtz delivered in the biggest moments, firing in 14 points, dropping four assists, and hitting 6 of 7 from the line with ice-cold confidence.

But Pennington’s sophomore standouts took the upset to another level. Dayonna Doggett was everywhere—putting up 15 points, eight rebounds, five assists, four steals, and two blocks, while knocking down 5 of 6 at the stripe. Eden Ashiavor brought the energy and an impressive double-double, scoring 11 points, securing 13 rebounds, and adding two steals to help the Red Hawks close the door on the No. 1 seed.

Pennington rolls into the semifinals with momentum, belief, and the swagger of a team that just toppled the tournament’s top-ranked squad.

Next up for Pennington will be a semifinal matchup at Stuart Country Day School on Wednesday, February 4.