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It’s been quite the banner year for high school basketball in Suffolk, and three of our teams aren’t done yet.

Both Lakeland High School teams, as well as the King’s Fork High School boys, earned regional titles and will be playing Friday evening in the first round of the state tournament.

Earlier in the season, the Lady Bulldogs lost to Grafton High School in the regional tournament. The Nansemond-Suffolk Academy girls made it to the state title game before falling to Steward School. The Saints boys were advancing in their own tournament before falling to Blue Ridge.

In short, it has been a great year for basketball in Suffolk.

There’s nothing that quite matches the electrifying nature of a gymnasium with two high school basketball teams engaged in a close, high-stakes game. The athletes are playing their hearts out, the coach is yelling instructions and encouragement, the cheerleaders are screaming and the fans are making themselves go hoarse, all to ensure the victory is won on the court.

If you’re able this Friday, we strongly encourage you to go support one or two of our local teams as they begin state tournament play. Even if you don’t know anyone on the teams, you’ll catch a great game, and you’re bound to see an old friend or two.

Forget college basketball coming up later this month — you haven’t seen March Madness until you’ve enjoyed a Suffolk basketball game.

The schedule for this Friday’s games is below. All Virginia High School League state games will be $10 for admission.

6 p.m. — King’s Fork High School boys vs. Monacan High School, at Norfolk State University

6 p.m. — Lakeland High School girls vs. Brentsville District High School, at King’s Fork

8 p.m. — Lakeland High School boys vs. Armstrong High School, at King’s Fork