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Basketball season is upon us at George Rogers Clark High School. 

As expected, this means it’s time for some preseason fun. 

On Thursday, Nov. 21, “Meet the Cards” night occurred in the school’s main gym to introduce fans and others to the two highly ranked teams that will play on the court this season. 

“It’s a fun night for the kids [and] a chance for the community [to] see the kids get on the court a little bit,” said George Rogers Clark Lady Cardinals Head Coach Robbie Graham. “It’s all about fun [and] a real good atmosphere.” 

To start the event, “Meet the Cards” Night featured an introduction of the Clark County Special Olympics team and a game that GRC’s boys and girls teams helped facilitate. 

The cheerleading and award-winning George Rogers Clark High School dance squad members were also introduced. 

However, as expected, those on the courts were a prime focus. 

After introducing the freshman and junior varsity squads of both teams, the GRC varsity players were introduced to the audience one by one. 

In addition to teammates of each squad scrimmaging against one another, a 3-point shootout, a game of knockout, and a game based on the 3-2-1 shooting drill were played. 

Senior Khania Jones hit the winning shot as the Lady Cards won the knockout competition. 

“For some reason, I just [felt] like I was [going to] win,” she said. “I think it’s a great crowd and a great atmosphere. Everybody’s pumped up!” 

Freshman Conner Morguson, who previously played at Powell County, helped lead the Cards to victory in the three-point shootout by connecting on 15 of his own. 

“It was just a great environment,” he said. “I had a great time… I’m just excited for the way that we play.” 

Just 48 hours later, both teams had another opportunity to show fans both in the arena and at home how they play. 

The Fox 56 Home Team Showcase occurred, featuring a day of high school girls’ and boys’ basketball matchups. 

Knox Central’s girls basketball team defeated Frederick Douglass 75-71 in the first two games. 

Immediately thereafter, the Great Crossing Warhawks’ basketball team – ranked by many as the preseason #1 favorite and featuring UK commit Malachi Moreno – returned from a deficit to defeat Boyd County 76-72. 

Next up, the Lady Cards took on the West Jessamine Lady Colts, who finished as 12th Region runner-ups last season against Danville Christian. 

With aid from a 10-0 run in the first quarter, the Lady Cards put on an impressive defensive showing and came out with a 55-44 victory. 

The Cards then took the floor against the Pulaski County Maroons, winners of the last two 12th Region Championships. 

Overcoming a halftime deficit, GRC pulled away and held on for a 59-56 victory in front of the home crowd. 

They were led by 17 points from sophomore and returning starter Montez Gay. 

“It was a great event overall. It’s exciting that we got to host,” said George Rogers Clark High School Boys Basketball Coach Josh Cook. “[Montez] is only getting better and better…it was a good learning game for us.” 

The Cards’ season opener is at home on Monday, Dec. 2, at 7:45 p.m., while the Lady Cards’ first game is against Simon Kenton on Saturday, Dec. 7, at 6:00 p.m. during the Hoops 4 Harvest Girls Basketball Tournament at Dixie Heights High School in Edgewood.