All season long, the conversation around the NVL title has centered on one team — Woodland. Dominant. Disciplined. Undefeated in league play. A group that looks destined to complete the mission
But there’s a new storyline forming in late February…
Is the NVL Championship heading to Bristol?
By D.M.Livingston|TWT Sports Desk|Published Feb 24, 2026
Waterbury-The 4-seed St. Paul Falcons — a team many of us (including this desk) underrated entering both the season and the tournament — have caught fire at the exact right time. Winners of 5 of their last 6, their only blemish in that stretch coming against the very team standing in their way again: Woodland.
That earlier meeting? A 16-point loss.
But this is Tournament Time and that doesn’t care about regular season results.
The Blizzard Delay, and the Rematch Ahead
The semifinal round was postponed due to Blizzard Calvin, adding even more anticipation and tension to what is shaping up to be a collision course between the red-hot Falcons and the powerhouse Hawks.
If St. Paul is going to flip the script, it starts with intensity and aggression.
The X-Factors for St. Paul
For St. Paul to shock the NVL and bring the title back to Bristol, three names must be at their absolute peak:
- Sean McMahon — He set the tone in the semifinal win over Naugatuck, attacking downhill, playing with force, and controlling the emotional tempo of the game. That same relentless aggression is non-negotiable in a title matchup.
- Cooper Antolini — Quietly, he may be the most underrated point guard in the entire NVL. His decision-making, pace, and ability to control possessions will be critical against Woodland’s pressure and discipline.
- Coby Dagata — His size and presence in the paint gives St. Paul a chance to battle Woodland’s physicality. He’ll need to be a force on both ends — rebounding, protecting the rim, and finishing through contact.
The Mountain in Front of Them
Standing in their way is a Woodland Hawks team that looks inevitable.
They’ve been the standard all season. They defend, they execute, and they don’t beat themselves. An undefeated NVL title run is within reach — and they’ve already shown they can handle St. Paul convincingly.
Which is exactly what makes this rematch so compelling.
So… Is the Title Heading to Bristol?
On paper — Woodland.
On momentum — St. Paul.
On belief — we’re about to find out.
Because if McMahon attacks, Antolini controls, and Dagata dominates the glass…
Bristol just might one step closer to being the new home of the NVL crown.
Stay with TWT Sports Desk for full coverage, postgame reactions, and championship breakdowns.
The Waterbury Times- Waterbury,CT Local News 
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