VALDOSTA— Tonight, Lowndes High School and Valdosta High School will share the court for the first time this season, setting the stage for one of the most anticipated regional basketball matchups.

With a packed house expected for the 6 p.m. varsity tipoff, both teams will look to bring their best in this high-stakes rivalry. Lowndes girls’ coach Courtney Fleming and Valdosta boys’ coach James Lee added their perspectives on their respective teams and the challenges that come from this neighborly matchup.

Admission is $10, which can be purchased with cash at the door or on GoFan.

Courtney Fleming

Coach Fleming is no stranger to high-pressure games and is confident that her team will always rise to the occasion. Reflecting on her team’s phenomenal season, Fleming attributes much of their success to her players’ leadership and determination.

However, Coach Fleming emphasized that her team is not taking anything for granted, acknowledging that the game will be one to watch. Despite their dominant performances this season, she noted that there are still areas for improvement. Fleming stressed that the team is focused on maintaining its standards, confident that adhering to those principles will give it the best chance for success.

Looking ahead to Saturday’s game, Fleming recognized the challenge posed by Valdosta’s head coach, E.A. Wilcox, and the Lady Cats.

“We are excited to see what he is going to throw at us. We are going to have to be ready for the challenge, and hopefully, it is going to be a great game both ways,” sid Fleming.

Fleming attributes much of the team’s success this season to the leadership and dedication of her senior players, noting that their contributions have not only defined this season but will leave a lasting legacy in the program’s history. 

“Our senior class is one that will, hopefully, go down in the history books here at Lowndes High School,” said Fleming. “I cannot wait for them to be able to play on this stage Saturday night, hopefully with a packed house.”

James Lee

On the boys’ side, Valdosta’s Coach Lee is equally enthusiastic about the upcoming game but fully aware of his team’s challenges. He emphasizes that every game this season has been a hard-fought battle, acknowledging that no opponent has made it easy for them. His team has embraced the competitive spirit needed to succeed.

Lee reflected on the team’s regional start, highlighting his players’ consistent effort and determination against Richmond Hill and Camden County.

He emphasized that a critical factor in tonight’s game will be how Valdosta’s “bigs” match up against Lowndes’. He acknowledged the size and talent of Lowndes’ frontcourt, noting their ability to dominate in the paint and control the boards.

“I told my bigs, ‘We go as far as you take us.’ So, if our young bigs can step up and dominate the glass and control the inside the way we did against Camden, I like our chances,” stated Lee.

Both Valdosta and Lowndes boys’ teams enter Saturday’s matchup with identical 10-6 overall records and a 1-1 record in regional play, underscoring how evenly matched these teams are this season. This shared record highlights the intensity and importance of the game, as both teams are fighting to gain an edge in a competitive region. 

“We want to make sure we represent Valdosta High well. In a Winnersville situation, it is always going to be heated,” said Lee. “We expect physicality. We expect a tough, gritty game. That is the way we want it to be, so we are excited for it.”

Today is a full day of basketball, with JV girls starting at 3 p.m. A JV boys game will follow.

Lowndes Schools is advising its home fans to sit on the north side of the gym near the team benches. Visitors should sit on the south end. Lowndes said fans will not be allowed to go from one side of the bleachers to the other during games.