- April 24, 2024
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Preston Harvey
Jamari Robinson Photos by Jeff Dawsey
It's disappointing to cover what should be a rivalry game that lacks the rivalry environment. Between FPC and Matanzas basketball, that has been the case, because FPC owns both Pirates programs, but I think that's about to change — at least for the boys.
These schools' football and volleyball sports draw the most supporters from both sides, creating the perfect environment that tends to make any game more exciting. Hope causes their supporters to flock to these particular rival matches.
When it comes to the games that these school supporters know won't go in their favor, all except family and some friends would rather stay at home. But, as we've seen with Matanzas football in the last few years, everyone chooses to attend the rival game that has a buzz and can go either way.
For the first time between the boys basketball programs, the Pirates are not only confident they can beat the Bulldogs, but they have already somewhat proven it. Matanzas beat FPC 65-60 in a preason game earlier this month, which put the Bulldogs on notice that Pirates basketball will no longer lay down and take the uncontested loss.
Judging by both games at the Kiwanis Shootout, Matanzas is longer, more athletic and can shoot better. New head coach Donald Lockhart is creating a culture in basketball that I haven't seen at Matanzas. Players get up congratulate every player whose subbed out. They hustle to him during every timeout call. All players encourage those out on the court. It's just different.
On the other hand, the Bulldogs are not playing at full strength. Two of FPC's four returning starters are nursing injuries, and the other players are still developing chemistry. Coach Gary McDaniel always bring the best out of his group, so I have no doubts the Bulldogs will eventually get on the right track.
To be fair, both teams will be a lot better two months from now, which makes for a better game. Just make sure you mark your calendars, because this is setting up to be a rivalry game you don't want to miss. And, for at least the upcoming seasons, both programs need to agree to play twice. It'll be well worth it.
The sole game will take place at 7:30 p.m. Friday, Jan. 27, at Matanzas.
