Wisconsin Lutheran Edges Oshkosh North to Reach State Championship

MADISON, Wis. – Wisconsin Lutheran secured a nail-biting 58-57 victory over Oshkosh North on Saturday night, advancing to the WIAA Boys Division 1 State Championship game.

The Vikings initiated their offensive strategy early, with Zavier Zens scoring a layup off the opening tip-off. Wisconsin Lutheran quickly established a commanding presence, jumping to a 13-point lead fueled by Zens’ contributions, who tallied 15 points in the first half, leading to a halftime score of 37-27.

Xzavion Mitchell emerged as the star for Oshkosh North in the second half, displaying remarkable determination. With 7:32 remaining, he tied the game at 50 with a free throw. Moments later, a jumper from Mitchell gave the Spartans a brief 54-52 lead with just 5:33 left.

Despite their momentum, the Spartans faced a scoring drought that lasted over four minutes. Tylan Lister’s three-pointer brought the score to 58-57 in favor of Wisconsin Lutheran, but the Vikings’ defense held firm. Mitchell’s attempt to drive into the paint was thwarted by Kager Knueppel, leading to a final opportunity for Oshkosh. A last-second three-point shot by Lister clanged off the rim as the buzzer sounded, sealing the Vikings’ win.

Zens concluded the game with a total of 22 points, while Mitchell led all scorers with 27 points for Oshkosh, supported by Bryce Ott’s 10 points.

Wisconsin Lutheran will face the winner of the Waunakee vs. Marshfield game in the Division 1 Championship scheduled for Saturday at approximately 8:15 p.m.