What to watch for in WPIAL sports on Jan. 16, 2024: Class 6A boys basketball contenders to clash

By: Don Rebel
Monday, January 15, 2024 | 8:13 PM

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As we hit the midway point of January, teams around WPIAL boys basketball reach the end of the first half of section play with plenty of key matchups.

At least a share of first place is up for grabs in two of the four Class 5A boys basketball sections Tuesday.

In Section 2, first-place Fox Chapel visits second-place Shaler at 7:30 p.m. on Trib HSSN.

The Foxes are 4-0 in the section and 9-6 overall but have won five straight games.

The Titans are 3-1 in the section and an impressive 13-1 overall. They have won their last two games since suffering their only loss of the season to Woodland Hills.

In Section 4, second-place Mars is set to host front-running Moon.

The Fightin’ Planets are tied for second place with a 3-1 section record and are 9-5 overall. Mars has won two straight since its only section loss to South Fayette, which is also 3-1 in the section.

The Tigers are on top with a 4-0 section record and their overall mark is 11-2. Moon has won 10 straight games after losing two of its first three contests this season.

Section unbeatens square off

There are two battles for first place elsewhere in WPIAL boys basketball pitting teams that have yet to lose in section play.

In Section 1-3A, Lawrence County rivals square off as Mohawks travels to Neshannock.

Both teams are a perfect 5-0 in section play.

The Warriors are 8-6 overall but are a perfect 5-0 in 2024.

The Lancers have won 12 of their 13 games this season. They lost their season opener to Mercyhurst Prep and have reeled off 12 straight wins.

Section 4-2A features 5-0 Burgettstown visiting 4-0 Fort Cherry.

The Blue Devils are 12-3 this season and have won two straight games since falling to 5A West Allegheny.

The Rangers have an overall record of 9-4 and have won three straight after losing to Washington on the first Saturday of the New Year.