The Schuylkill League basketball teams are gearing up for the postseason as the playoffs approach, set to commence on February 7, 2024. The boys’ team from Pottsville and the girls’ team from North Schuylkill currently lead their respective divisions, showcasing impressive performances throughout the season.
Boys Basketball Standouts
Pottsville, with a record of 8-3 and 5-0 in Division I, remains undefeated in league play. The team has shown resilience, winning five of its last six games, including a decisive 54-35 victory over North Schuylkill on December 15. Leading the charge is Christian Alvarez, who averages 17.3 points per game. Other key contributors include Ryder Bowers with 10.3 points per game and Dave Kunstek at 9.4 points per game, solidifying Pottsville’s position as a formidable contender.
Minersville follows closely with an 8-1 record, where their only loss came against Pottsville on December 11. The Battlin’ Miners have secured victories against teams such as Tamaqua and Williams Valley. Shazier Bethea has emerged as a key player, scoring 21 points in a recent game against Williams Valley.
North Schuylkill, currently 6-3 with a 3-2 league record, started strong but faces challenges after losses to Pottsville and Minersville. The Spartans are led by a duo of talented players, Caden Mengel and Cam Kacilowicz, each contributing 14 points in a recent matchup against Palisades.
Tri-Valley remains undefeated at 9-1 overall and 5-0 in Division II, with notable victories against teams like Pine Grove. The Bulldogs are powered by Braeden Doyle, Trey Porter, and Gavin Klock, who have collectively led the team on a three-game winning streak.
Schuylkill Haven is also making waves with a record of 10-1 and a four-game winning streak, recently defeating Shenandoah Valley 71-35. The Hurricanes rely on their scoring trio of Alan Evans, Justin Watcher, and Max Heim to maintain their competitive edge.
Weatherly, at 6-2, is enjoying a four-game winning streak, with significant contributions from Niko Saldukas and Ian McKeegan, each averaging 14.7 points per game.
Girls Basketball Leaders
In girls’ basketball, North Schuylkill has taken an early lead, holding a record of 6-2 and remaining undefeated in league play at 5-0. The Spartans began the season with impressive wins over Panther Valley and Pine Grove. However, they faced a setback against State College, losing 45-28 on December 30. Key players like Mya Conti, Gianna Capone, and Monica Selgrade have been instrumental in their success.
Schuylkill Haven, with a record of 7-3, is determined to defend its league championship despite a recent loss at Marian. McKenna Runkle leads the team with an impressive 13.8 points per game, supported by Kylie Siket and Audrey Hutchinson.
Pine Grove has also made headlines by winning the Cardinal Classic Holiday Tournament, edging Eastern Lebanon County 45-44 on December 29. The Cardinals are bolstered by the performances of Callee Leffler, Hollynn Sampson, and Lainey Fidler.
Mahanoy Area boasts an impressive 7-1 record and is one of the two undefeated teams in Division II alongside Lourdes. Felicia Bro recently celebrated her 1,000th career point in a victory over Panther Valley.
Lourdes remains strong in Division II as well, with a record of 7-1 and notable wins against teams like Marian. Hannah Lokitis leads the Red Raiders, averaging 10.8 points per game.
As the league playoffs approach, all eyes will be on these top-performing teams as they aim for success in the District 11 playoffs beginning on February 14 and the PIAA state playoffs starting on February 28. Fans and players alike are eager to see how the season unfolds, with the potential for thrilling games ahead.
