EL DORADO, Ark.-Arkansas High is one of the premier basketball programs in the state and it's not by luck either.
The Razorbacks are playing El Dorado today for the first Class 6A Conference championship in school history. Tipoff is scheduled for 7:30 p.m. in the Wildcats' home gymnasium.
"It's what we planned to do before the season started," Arkansas High co-captain Taviron Oliver said. "It's not over though, we have some more business to handle."
The Razorbacks' resurgence is a reflection of their leader, coach Sam Weaver. Weaver's decades of experience comes in handy when dealing with his players.
Weaver's approach of accountability and acceptance has exuded itself onto his players, which is reflected in the Hogs' 21-6 regular-season record.
"I'm excited about the game against El Dorado," AHS co-captain Kyndal Martin said. "The series is tied (1-1) and they have some great players. We have some great players, so it's time to go out and show what we can do."
Martin and Oliver have torched opponents this season, especially at home where Arkansas High lost only one game.
The Hogs' guard play has been exceptional, but the post players also have played a key role in this year's success.
Trayvon Robinson, Michael Caldwell and Johnny Gullatt have played like immovable objects the entire season. They also have provided the home crowd with highlight dunks and blocks that are reminisce of Tayshun Prince. The group also has led the team in rebounding.
"We're going to stick with our same game plan. They have great guards and we have great guards," Razorback wingman Fabian Phillips said. "They have a good post player and we have good post players. It's going to be a great game and hopefully, we'll come out
on top."
Phillips' 21-point showing against Benton in the conference semifinals propelled the Razorbacks to the state playoffs and also the school's highest ranking since 1977.
Weaver and his assistant coaches have the Hogs geared for an extensive postseason run, which begins today in El Dorado.