Friday’s Games to Watch
Five marquee games to keep tabs on during Friday's WIAA boy's basketball action...
Wrightstown (8-3) at Denmark (8-2)
Winner of this game stays in the driver's seat along with first-place Freedom in the North Eastern Conference. Wrightstown, led by senior Mayson Hazaert (25.8 ppg) comes in having won four consecutive games. Denmark is getting north of 20 points per game from both Zane Short (20.8 ppg) and Patrick Suemnick (20.5 ppg) this season and is riding a six-game winning streak.
D.C. Everest (8-3) at Merrill (8-3)
A pair of 8-3 ball clubs meet looking to stay in contention in the Wisconsin Valley Conference. Looking to rebound after a surprising loss to Wisconsin Rapids, Everest will turn to senior guard Zion Turner (23.2 ppg), a favorite for conference Player of the Year. Getting 21.0 ppg from Quinn Steckbauer, Merrill comes in just a half game back of leader Stevens Point.
Germantown (9-1) at Brookfield East (7-2)
A game we didn't think would have major consequences on the Greater Metro Conference standings at this point in the season, Brookfield East hosts Germantown on Friday. The Warhawks are tied atop of the conference with Sussex Hamilton with a perfect 5-0 record. Senior forward Luke Taylor has been terrific this season, averaging 18 points and 11 rebounds. Riley Le Tourneau (20.4 ppg) has been one of the surprise players in the state this season and has East currently ranked in Division 1.
Onalaska (10-1) at La Crosse Central (9-1)
The biggest game in the state takes place out West. First place in the Mississippi Valley Conference is on the line as No. 2 La Crosse Central hosts No. 4 Onalaska. The Hilltoppers are getting 17.4 ppg from junior Carson Arenz and 15.6 ppg from junior Tyrell Stuttley. Leading one of the most dangerous starting lineups in the state, 2020 shooting guard Johnny Davis is putting up 23.9 ppg for the Red Raiders.
Stratford (10-0) at Auburndale (10-1)
This game should have strong implications on next week's rankings and the Marawood South Conference title race as well. Putting their perfect record on the line, Stratford, led by Vaughn Breit (14.6 ppg) can bolster their resume and shoot up the Division 3 rankings with this win. Pushing for a spot in the Division 4 rankings, Auburndale features a dangerous 1-2 punch of Colton Wright (17.4 ppg) and Cooper Weinfurter (17.3 ppg).
Others: Arrowhead at Muskego, Wautoma at Wisconsin Dells, McFarland at Beloit Turner, Eau Claire North at Eau Claire Memorial
