This basketball season has been one of great success in the River Region, which boasts one top-ranked team, five district champions and nine total playoff teams.
On Monday, the number one-ranked West St. John girls will host a state quarterfinal game for the first time ever. A victory over Class 1A foe Hanson will earn the Rams, who boast a spectacular 29-1 record, a second consecutive trip to the Top 28.
Last night, the Riverside, East St. John and St. James boys were each set to continue strong seasons, hosting Rosepine, Jesuit and Farmerville respectively.
For Riverside, the postseason has offered a chance to announce an arrival ahead of schedule. A roster full of freshmen and sophomores was supposed to be “rebuilding” yet has cemented itself as a contender to win its third state crown in four years.
East St. John boasts perhaps the most complete team it ever has, with size, depth, strong guard play and a suffocating defense. The Wildcats have already notched major wins over a slew of top teams this season and are a threat to win their first state basketball crown.
St. James exploded onto the scene this year with a 21-6 record and are rolling with 11 wins in their last 14 games. The Wildcats have excited their fanbase and for good reason.  
L’Observateur would like to wish good luck to all four teams still alive in their brackets, and also congratulate those teams thaT were eliminated this week for their tremendous seasons. The East St. John, Riverside, Destrehan and St. James girls and the West St. John boys all punched their postseason tickets with memorable seasons and gave fans much to look forward to in the coming years.