Emerson Pirates (Emerson, AR) backers were in high spirits Friday as they witnessed their basketball squad bounce the visiting Dermott Rams (Dermott, AR), 67-17 in a league bout.

With the win, Emerson upgrades its record to 15-5 on the season. The Pirates host Hermitage (Hermitage, AR) to play the Hermits in a 1A Region 8 bout on Tuesday, January 9. The Hermits go into the bout with a record of 5-10. Hermitage won 57-52 in their recent league bout against Strong (Strong, AR)

Next up, the Rams play the Nevada Blue Jays (Rosston, AR) in a 1A Region 8 bout, on Friday, January 12. Dermott will attempt to upgrade on its 0-20 season record.