The Highlanders boys basketball team suffered a tough section loss on Tuesday against rival Mt. Lebanon in a defensive showdown by a score of 50-32.

The Highlanders struggled to generate offense in Mt. Lebanon’s speedy, hectic defense.

“We missed too many easy shots and had way too many turnovers,” senior Christian Barr said.

One bright spot for the Highlanders was their defense, which held Mt. Lebanon to 50 points, their lowest total of the year.

“Our defensive game plan going into the game was extremely successful,” Barr said. “We executed it really well, and it showed, especially early on.”

The team felt their defense played well enough to win, but the offense underperformed.

“Our defense gave us a great opportunity to win, but we weren’t able to seize the opportunity we gave ourselves,” Barr said.

The Highlanders now have a 6-9 record, and are 1-5 in their section. Their next game is Friday night against section powerhouse Upper St. Clair.

“We have to keep doing what we are doing at practice,” Barr said. “We played them really well last time we played them, but we need to play even better to come out with a win.”