Matt Vines

The postseason officially kicked off Thursday night for the Riverdale Academy girls basketball team as the No. 1 seed Lady Rebels dusted No. 3 seed Humphreys Academy by a score of 69-17.

The Lady Rebels (24-5) punched their ticket to the Class 1A state tournament by advancing to the South Regional semifinals, where they will face Briarfield Academy on Friday at 4 p.m.

Briarfield easily handled No. 3 seed Franklin Academy by a score of 64-28 in the second round Wednesday.

Riverdale beat Briarfield three times this past season, twice in district play and once in the postseason. But the teams are in different districts this season and have not played.

To reach the second round, Riverdale earned a first-round bye while Humphreys skated past No. 2 Wilkinson County Christian by a score of 53-14.

RIVERDALE BOYS
For a young Riverdale team that’s been growing into its own this season, the Rebels will have the opportunity to grow some more.

No. 2 seed Riverdale knocked off No. 3 seed Mt. Salus Christian by a score of 73-45 in the second round of the Class 1A South Regional tournament.

The Rebels (4-11) will play Friday at 7:45 p.m. in the semifinals against the winner of No. 1 seed Woodlawn Prep and No. 2 seed Humphreys Academy (played late Thursday night).

Riverdale finds itself back in the state tournament after missing that round this past season.