Basketball Game Preview: Smithfield-Selma Spartans vs. South Johnston Trojans

Smithfield-Selma hasn't had much luck against South Johnston recently, but that could start to change on Friday. Having just played yesterday, the Smithfield-Selma Spartans will get right back to it and host the South Johnston Trojans at 7:30 p.m.

Smithfield-Selma is headed into the matchup out to prove that what happened against Triton on Thursday (when they were outscored in every quarter) was just a minor bump in the road. Smithfield-Selma was beaten by Triton 73-34. The Spartans were in a tough position after the first half, with the score already sitting at 38-15.

Meanwhile, South Johnston was able to grind out a solid victory over Corinth Holders on Tuesday, taking the game 55-46. That nine point margin sets a new team best for the Trojans this season.

Smithfield-Selma better keep an eye on Cole Norris. He was instrumental in South Johnston's win, dropping a double-double on 22 points and 15 rebounds. Another player making a difference was Maddox Sills, who posted ten points and five boards.

This is the second loss in a row for Smithfield-Selma and nudges their season record down to 2-5. As for South Johnston, the win got them back to even at 3-3.

Smithfield-Selma came up short against South Johnston in their previous meeting back in January, falling 60-54. A big factor in that loss was the dominant performance of Norris, who had 35 points. Now that Smithfield-Selma knows the damage he can cause, will they be able to stop him this time? Check MaxPreps.com after the match to find out.