WPIAL First Round Playoffs: Feb. 14, 2025

The basketball playoffs are here, and excitement is building. But for Peters Township, one of the top teams in the area, there’s some concern. Natalie Wetzel, a senior and a key player for the team, may not be able to play in their big game this Friday due to a lower-body injury. Fans are anxious to know if Wetzel will take the court for the game against Fox Chapel, set for 7 PM Friday.

Wetzel’s Injury and Peters Township’s Performance

Wetzel, who has been an essential part of Peters Township’s success this season, hurt her ankle during the team’s last game. That match was against Mt. Lebanon on Monday, and unfortunately, Peters Township lost. The loss also ended their impressive six-game winning streak. Wetzel, who is committed to Miami of Ohio, has averaged 20.6 points per game this season and is crucial to the team’s offensive power.

Despite the recent loss, Peters Township remains one of the strongest teams in the league, finishing with a dominant regular season. They are ranked second and had two long winning streaks—one stretching seven games and the other six. On Friday, they will host Fox Chapel, who is hoping to pull off an upset.

Fox Chapel’s Struggles

Fox Chapel, on the other hand, has had a more mixed season. They started strong, winning three games in January, but things have since taken a turn for the worse. They lost four of their last six games. The team tied for third place in their section with Plum. Peters Township, however, had no such struggles and easily took the top spot in their section.

As the game approaches, it’s clear that Fox Chapel will need to bring their best if they want to knock off the powerhouse Peters Township team. But with Wetzel’s status still uncertain, the game could turn out to be more unpredictable than anyone expects.

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Girls Class 5A: Friday’s Opening Round Matchups

It’s not just about Peters Township—other exciting playoff games are set for Friday night. In Class 5A, there’s plenty of action to look forward to.

South Fayette’s Quest for Another Title

South Fayette, the top seed in Class 5A, is looking to capture their fourth title. They will host Greensburg-Salem at 7 PM on Friday. South Fayette has been a powerhouse, and they’ll be favored to advance in their playoff journey.

Chartiers Valley vs. Baldwin

At 8 PM, the matchup between Chartiers Valley (No. 8 seed) and Baldwin (No. 9 seed) should be one to watch. These two teams are evenly matched, with Chartiers Valley winning five of their last six games, while Baldwin has won six straight. It’s bound to be an exciting game!

Shaler and Franklin Regional

Shaler (No. 4 seed) will host Mars (No. 13 seed) at 7 PM. Shaler has been on fire, winning nine games in a row. They share the section title with Franklin Regional, who will face Bethel Park (No. 12 seed) in another first-round matchup at 7 PM.

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Girls Class 3A: Friday Frenzy Continues

In Class 3A, defending champions Shady Side Academy are the top seed and get a bye into the next round. But the rest of the teams are ready to compete in seven first-round games on Friday.

Keystone Oaks vs. Ligonier Valley

Keystone Oaks (No. 4 seed) will host Ligonier Valley (No. 13 seed) at 6 PM. After a 15-game win streak, Keystone Oaks hopes to bounce back from their recent loss and advance in the playoffs.

Seton LaSalle and Greensburg Central Catholic

At 6 PM, Seton LaSalle (No. 5 seed) will play Ellwood City (No. 12 seed). Both teams are in strong form, with Seton LaSalle winning five of their last six games. Meanwhile, Greensburg Central Catholic (No. 2 seed) welcomes Brownsville (No. 15 seed) for a 7 PM game.

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Boys Class 4A: A Clash of Champions

The boys’ playoffs are quieter on Friday, with only Class 4A teams in action. But there are some thrilling matchups nonetheless.

Deer Lakes vs. Quaker Valley

At 7:30 PM, Deer Lakes (No. 7 seed) will face off against Quaker Valley (No. 10 seed). This is a clash of recent champions, as Quaker Valley won the 4A title in 2022. The winner will advance to play North Catholic.

Highlands and Elizabeth Forward

Highlands (No. 9 seed) will take on Elizabeth Forward (No. 8 seed) at 7 PM. The winner will move on to face top-seeded Belle Vernon.

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Ready for Playoff Action?

With the playoffs heating up, there’s no shortage of excitement. Will Peters Township continue their strong season despite Wetzel’s injury? Can Fox Chapel pull off the upset? And who will come out on top in the Class 5A and 3A matchups? There’s a lot at stake, and the action on the court is sure to deliver some thrilling moments.

What are your predictions for Friday’s games? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to follow all the playoff action as it unfolds!