Undefeated Mark on the Line for Eastview Boys Basketball in Rematch Tests

The undefeated and top-ranked Eastview boys’ basketball team will face another tough challenge when South Suburban Conference foe comes to town Friday night.

A victory at home over the No. 3-ranked Panthers (18-1 on the season and 10-1 in the SSC) would provide the Lightning (19-0, 11-0) with a two-game cushion in the conference heading down the home stretch and give Eastview a season sweep over a formidable Lakeville North team.

The Panthers’ only blemish on the season is a 54-48 home loss to Eastview in January. The Lightning had to deal with a boisterous crowd on the road during that battle and hope to return the favor at the gymnasium on Friday.

Eastview forward attracted plenty of attention from the Panther defense during that contest but still led all scores with 18 points. King is averaging nearly 26 points per game this season; Darin Haugh and Ben Oberfeld also are averaging in double figures for the Lightning.

North’s Brett Rasmussen was a force for the Panthers on both ends of the court during the last meeting. Rasmussen scored 14 points and was a large defensive presence that helped to limit King’s opportunities. Trey Heid led Lakeville North with 16 points during the last match-up.

Tip-off for the important rematch is set for 7:15 p.m. Friday at Eastview High School.

A Valentine’s date for Eastview with cross-town rival (16-3, 9-2) also looms. That rematch is scheduled for 7:15 p.m. Tuesday at Eastview. 

Arriving early for both games is advised. For the Tuesday game between Eastview and Apple Valley, ticket sales will begin at 4:30 p.m. (the start of the sophomore game), according to an announcement from Apple Valley High School.   

The announcements says that once the Eastview gym reaches capacity that evening, doors will be locked and no more fans will be allowed in, regardless of whether they already bought a ticket earlier or have some type of pass. It's advised that those who buy tickets early stay at the gym.