The girls basketball team (21-1) will play the Eden Prairie Eagles (15-8) this Friday, Feb 20. The last time the teams faced each other the Royals defeated the Eagles 62-45. However, last year the Eagles upset the Royals in the section semifinal game.

While noting the gravity of this game, Evelyn Knox, junior, and point guard for the Royals says they will treat this like every other game.

“We prepare for Eden Prairie just like we prepare for every other game,” Knox said. “We go through all of their plays, we watch film from when we played them last, basically we fine tune everything.”

Brian Cosgriff, head coach of the Royals, notes that defeating Eden Prairie will not be easy.

“They play very hard,” said Cosgriff. “We need to come out and match their intensity.”

Cosgriff also knows that though this game determines nothing, it is still a significant game.

“It’s a rivalry,” Cosgriff said.

The Royals have not lost since December, in a close game to Eastview. Currently, the Royals are ranked 1st in state and 6th in the nation. Many believe they are the favorites to win not only the Lake Conference but take home the state title.

Still, Te’aire Starks, senior, has not forgotten about last year’s section semifinal loss.

“I want another crack at EP,” said Starks. “I want to send them packing.”

The game will be held in the Lindbergh Center at 7:00pm.