New Madrid County has more than just the back-to-back 3A state champions to brag about. They've also got the Portageville Bulldogs, who were the back-to-back-to-back-to-back 2A state champs from 1991 to '94. The two schools should've been playing all along, and this Friday, they finally will.
In one of the most high-profile games of the year, J.T. Williams and Company make the short trip north to take on Dereke Tipler and the Eagles.
Portageville is 21-2, having won 12 straight. They're ranked No. 4 in Class 2A. NMCC is 21-3 with five consecutive wins.
They fell to No. 2 this week in the Class 3A poll.
Both teams have been waiting for this game all year, and there are some fans that have been waiting on this matchup for many years. Finally, the Battle of New Madrid County.
Final score: NMCC 65, Portageville 60
Just 17 days ago, Sikeston hit rock bottom with a 38-point loss to Portageville. But since then, the Bulldogs have suddenly transformed into one of the area's premier teams.
They beat Class 4A No. 3 ranked Poplar Bluff, then gave NMCC a run for its money last night.
Next up is Kennett, a dangerous team capable of beating anybody or losing to anybody. If Sikeston can pull off this one in convincing fashion, an appearance in the 3A District 1 finals is very possible. Second-seeded Dexter is looking beatable these days.
Final score: Sikeston 59, Kennett 50
The Bluejays are due for an impressive victory, especially after last Friday's overtime loss at Portageville. Poplar Bluff is a bear on their home court, but Charleston has the players to get the job done. If Jordy Mixon and Lezcano Dean both show up, look for an upset.
Final score: Charleston 62, Poplar Bluff 60
Oran's tough stretch officially comes to an end when the Red Devils come to town Friday. Chaffee can keep the score respectable if Andrew Horrell and Josh Lamer hit a high percentage of their shots, but ultimately, they will have no answer for Oran's balanced attack. The Eagles will cruise past the Red Devils before ending the regular season with wins over Woodland and Kelly.
Final score: Oran 65, Chaffee 50
The Hornets are the better team, but all bets are off considering this game will be played at Scott Central.
If Squeaky Williams, Chris Johnson and Chris Pullen get on a roll, Advance is in trouble. Streaky sharpshooter Jared Ritter needs to take the Braves out of the game early for the Hornets' sake.
Final score: Advance 70, Scott Central 65
East Prairie is playing its best basketball of the season, but they don't have the horses to keep up with Hayti for four quarters. Gosnell, Ark., transfer Pete Peterson has been a nice addition, giving the super athletic Indians an outside threat.
Final score: Hayti 65, East Prairie 50
The Rebels suffered a minor setback last night against Bernie, but should get back on track with a win over Woodland on Friday. Everybody knows Cole is going to score 25 or more.
Josh McMullin will be the difference-maker.
Final score: Richland 73, Woodland 65