Bettendorf and Pleasant Valley square off tonight (Feb. 2) at BHS in the annual "Cake Walk" basketball game.
The varsity girls play first, followed by the varsity boys basketball contest.
The 9-1 Pleasant Valley boys team is sporting a number six ranking in the state 4A poll, leading the MAC conference and coming off a win over Muscatine (ranked ninth in 4A and in second place in the MAC).
Bettendorf is coming off a disappointing week with losses to Muscatine and Iowa City West (the state's top ranked 4A team).
Coupled with earlier losses to Pleasant Valley, North Scott and Davenport Central, the Bulldogs are looking to the post-season for redemption.
The Bettendorf boy's basketball team is playing with mostly seniors, posing concern about next season.
"I don't know what will happen next year, but the younger kids will have to mature greatly," said Andy Flick, a senior on the varsity squad.
There are several positive signs.
"Drew Wessels (sophomore point guard) has matured quickly this year and Alan Vesey (also a sophomore) proved that he is a strong athlete," said Flick. "They will definitely be even better players next year."
The district basketball playoffs will be March 2-7 at locations yet to be announced. The Iowa State High School boys basketball tournament will be March 12-17 in Des Moines.
