The boys basketball team clinched a playoff berth Tuesday night with a huge road win at Upper Saint Clair, 58-48.

The Highlanders were looking forward to this game ever since Baldwin easily beat St. Clair the last time they met. The Panthers came out with an aggressive play style on Tuesday.

“They were disrespectful towards us at their home court and were throwing cheap shots,” senior Carlos Ramirez said.

Each player contributed to the win offensively and defensively, he said.

“We didn’t let them score on defense and then we did our job on the offensive side,” Ramirez said.

The team was excited for the playoff clinch, but they still know there is more to be done.

“It felt great to beat them and clinch playoffs, but we know we still have a lot to accomplish and win the section,” senior Anthony Reid said. “Friday will be a big one.”

Friday is a key matchup against rival opponent Mt. Lebanon at home.

“We will treat it like any other game, but we have to be faster than them and play harder,” Ramirez said.

This game could have key implications on how the section will turn out, with the Highlanders currently one game back from Mt. Lebanon.

That game will be broadcast on YouTube by the Highlander Highlights team, with play-by-play by Purbalite Sports Editor Jack Hillgrove and color commentary by Purbalite Sports Editor Mike Silvestre.