Six New Orleans area boys basketball teams are set to compete in the state tournament semifinals at Burton Coliseum in Lake Charles this week, with finals scheduled for Friday and Saturday.

By the Numbers
  • Ponchatoula (28-4) defeated Slidell 95-64 with Allen Graves scoring 37 points and making four 3-pointers.
  • Carver (22-6) secured a 54-37 victory against Lafayette Christian with Daijon Leatherman contributing 22 points and 15 rebounds.
State of Play
  • Ponchatoula can potentially achieve a repeat championship after last year's historic state final appearance.
  • Carver, the two-time state champion, aims for a title-game rematch against Madison Prep.
  • Shaw is in the semifinals for the third consecutive year under coach Wesley Laurendine.
  • Newman, the reigning champion, has a strong history with coach Randy Livingston's leadership.
What's Next

The upcoming matchups include Ponchatoula facing New Iberia, Carver playing Peabody, Shaw against Madison Prep, Newman against Episcopal, Crescent City meeting Lincoln Prep, and St. Martin's taking on Hamilton Christian.

Bottom Line

Six New Orleans area boys basketball teams are poised for intense competition in the state tournament semifinals, with the potential for repeat champions and title-game rematches highlighting the exciting matchups ahead.