Mars' Robby Carmody (24) tries to gain control of the basketball during the Planets' 70-51 WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal victory over Hampton Friday night at Butler. Carmody scored 21 points in the game.

BUTLER TWP — Rob Carmody has always showcased an aw-shucks attitude about the little town of Mars, Pa., having a formidable boys basketball program.

Behind the grin and stories of out-of-state teams giggling about the Planets' nickname, the 20th-year Mars coach was building a monster.

Following a 70-51 victory over Hampton Friday night in a WPIAL Class 5A quarterfinal playoff game at Butler High School, the Planets will once again be in position show everyone how scary they can be.

Mars — which clinched its seventh straight bid to the state playoffs — is one step away from reaching the WPIAL final for the third season in a row. The Planets will take on Trinity in the semifinals Tuesday at a site and time to be determined.

“Our guys take a lot of pride,” Carmody said. “This our 11th straight year in the playoffs, seventh time in the state playoffs and third time in the semifinals. I's a testament to all the kids that have played here and these kids have continued on with that tradition.”

This particular hurdle is one that has been a monster of sorts for Mars. Despite having played for a state crown in 2016, Carmody hasn't been able to reach the WPIAL finals.

“We still have to come Sunday, Monday and can't look ahead,” said senior guard Robby Carmody, who finished with 21 points. “If we get caught looking ahead, we're going to lose Tuesday.”

To learn more about this game, read Sunday's Butler Eagle.