The regular season for prep basketball ends this weekend in Dallas County. Area tournaments start next week.

Southside hosts Keith in the only contest between county teams on Friday. The Bears have won the first two meetings.

Keith (14-10) will host the Area 4, Class 1A tournament next week in Orrville and expects a stiff challenge from Southside on senior night.

“We understand playing Southside is never an easy game,” Keith coach Clifton Reeves said. “Their young guys have been playing well. We want to stay focused and take the opportunity to stay sharp and prepare for the area tournament.”

Southside coach Lenord Jones said the Panthers will have plenty of motivation.

“I want to finish the season strong with a win because Keith is one of our strongest rivals and it’s senior night, that’s my gift to the two seniors,” Jones said.

In other Friday games: Selma hosts R.C. Hatch, Dallas County visits Billingsley, Morgan Academy hosts Sparta and Meadowview Christian School visits Crenshaw.

Selma wraps up the regular season at home against Francis Marion on Saturday for senior day, which will tipoff around 3:30 p.m. Rams coach Woodie Jackson is a former Selma coach.

Selma coach Ronald Lane said the Saints’ final two regular-season games provide a chance for momentum. Selma will host its Girls’ and Boys’ Area tournament finals next Friday.

“Weekend games are big local contests that create the intensity you need to play with during the state playoffs,” Lane said. “R.C. Hatch and Francis Marion are two programs known for championships, quality players and legendary coaches. It should be an exciting finish to the regular season and basketball feast for the great fans of the Blackbelt area.