A big crowd is expected for Friday night’s game between county rivals Selma and Southside, but that’s nothing new. The game always attracts one of the biggest basketball crowds in the county each year, and this time both teams desperately need a win to get back on track.

Selma (7-5) has lost two straight and also has likely lost starters Aderick Moore and Loveless Craig for the year due to injuries. Southside (4-4) has reeled off four straight losses after winning its first four games.

“We’re going to be very desperate because we’ll be playing without some manpower, but the game is on the schedule and we’ve got to go play it,” said Selma head coach Woodie Jackson.

It’ll be the first time Southside has hosted the rivalry game since 2014. Both of last year’s contests were played at Selma High School, including the game that was scheduled to be played at Southside. It was moved as a safety precaution after comments were made on social media.

Selma has swept the series the last two years, but on Friday Southside would like to flip the script.

“It’s a big time rivalry game, so the records and things like that go out the window,” said Southside head coach Cedric Brown. “We’re just looking for a hard fought game between us and Selma.”

Brown said Southside has been pre-selling tickets early because a big crowd is expected Friday.

“We prepare for two games for a game like [Friday],” Brown said. We bought extra for the concessions, extra security. It mainly just making sure the I’s are dotted and the T’s are crossed.”

Jackson said it’s going to be a big test for his guys to play at Southside.

Both coaches anticipate hustle plays will play a large role in determining the final result.

“It’s going to be a real test,” Jackson said. “They are always tough at Southside and this year they have a very, very good team. They are a senior-led ballclub.”

The junior varsity game is scheduled to tip-off at 5 p.m.

It will be followed by the varsity girls and varsity boys.

Brown has some advice for anybody planning to attend the game — get to the game as early as possible.

“If you can get here at 4 or 4:30 and go ahead and get you a seat, you’ll be grateful for that,” Brown said. “Get here a little early.”