PEA RIDGE (KFSM) - The Pea Ridge Blackhawks started conference play with a 10 point loss to Gentry. But, they've been on a roll since that game a month ago.
"Defensively lately we've really turned it around," coach Trent Loyd said. "Defensive pressure has amped up. We're really sticking to our philosophy. Offensively we're sharing the basketball a lot better than we were at the beginning, and that's just because guys came in a little later and we're getting comfortable with each other. You know, right now we're playing good basketball."
So good, they are number two in conference. Friday night they'll face the top dog though, Huntsville.
"It will be a tough fought game," junior forward Britton Caudill said. "But, we've tried all year not to look forward to this one, but this one we really want."
A win in this game could possibly determine a 4A-1 title.
"I think this is why you play the game, to play in the one versus two. So, our guys are excited about it. They've never backed down from a challenge. So I expect it to be a good competitive game, and we'll see where it takes us."
This match up has the Blackhawks ready to go to war tomorrow.
"I was telling my friends earlier that it feels like we're in state already," junior point guard Joey Hall said. "It feels like playing a state game."
But it won't be without it's challenges, defense will be key.
"They are really good three point shooters. Gotta give them credit there. We're just going to do whatever we can to knock them of their game a little bit," Hall said.
"They can shoot like crazy. It's just stopping their offense. But, I think we can do it," Caudill said.
Friday's game will be on the road for the Blackhawks.