A big send-off was held for two River Valley basketball teams as they prepare to compete for the 7A state championship title in Little Rock.
Fort Smith is a town divided as the Southside High School Lady Rebels prepare to face-off against their crosstown rivals, the Lady Bears from Northside High School, for the chance at the championship. Each school hosted a pep rally to show support for their team Thursday morning (March 7).
The game will take place at 5:15 p.m. Friday at Barton Coliseum.
It is the third time this season the two teams will meet on the court. The Lady Bears have been victorious over the Lady Rebels in both match ups.
Southside senior point guard, Calli White, says her team needs to focus on their mental game.
"Last game we played them, we had 21 turnovers so we're going to have to try to take care of that this time," said White.
Northside's women's basketball team has won eight consecutive games against Southside.
Northside has appeared in the finals the last three years. Coach Rickey Smith says this championship game is particularly special for the senior class.
“This senior class is three trips in a row, and to be their senior year going against Southside High School it’s been an exciting time,” said Coach Smith.