WBHS opens state Friday at home

WBHS will host Lithia Springs Friday at 7 p.m. in the Dogghouse. It will be the first time WBHS has hosted a first-round state basketball tournament game, according to local sports historian Hal Miller.

“Lithia Springs is traditionally a strong program,” Sokol said. “They like to use full court pressure. We’ll have our hands full.”

The Bulldogg coach said Lithia Springs was a favorite to win the Region 5-AAAA tournament but fell in the semifinals. The Lions fell to Bannesker in the semifinals before rebounding to defeat Fayette County for the No. 3 seed.

Coach Jason Slate’s squad has lost just five times this season, with four of the losses by seven or less points.

"I am very concerned with this game," Slate told the Barrow Journal. "After looking at them on film, I am not sure if we can match up with them inside. We are expecting to play in front of a loud pro-Winder crowd. It will be a tremendous challenge for us on Friday."

Sokol likes the fact his team will have an entire week to prepare for the contest giving the players a chance to watch tape of this Friday’s opponent and to go over a complete and detailed game plan.

“We also have the opportunity to play at home in front of our fans,” Sokol said. “That is something we are looking forward to. We hope that will make a difference. as we begin the tournament.”