Clayton News Daily

By Doug Gorman

As the high school football season hits the home stretch, another popular sport is about to begin in the Southern Crescent.

Starting next week basketball steps into the spotlight as the Jonesboro High School Girls' Basketball Shootout returns to get the season started.

"It should be an exciting night," said Jonesboro head coach John Kovzel. "Everyone of the games should be entertaining."

Kovzel, who also serves as an assistant football coach is staying busy trying to juggle both sports.

"We are looking forward to our game with Lovejoy," he said. "It will be good to get the season started."

Four marquee games are on the slate, including games featuring sixteams from Clayton County.

At 3:30 p.m., Mundy's Mill and Forest Park tip-off their seasons.

At 4:45, two guest to the Southern Crescent take the floor as Westside-Macon and Berkmar play their season openers.

The Jonesboro Lady Cardinals, who went to the Class AAAAA sweet 16 last season, return to the floor for a game against rival Lovejoy in a contest scheduled for 6 p.m.

Finally, Riverdale takes on Morrow in the last game of the day. Action between the two rivals is set to begin at 7:30 p.m.

A year ago, head coach Derick Powell led Riverdale to the Class AAAAA Final Four.

Morrow advanced to the Class AAAAA Sweet 16.

The cost to get into the game is $7.