Normal West’s basketball and cheer teams will be playing and cheering for the last time at home this Friday night. Friday is senior night, a time to recognize the seniors who have been on the team throughout high school.

The four basketball boys who will be recognized are Brady Cupples, Malik Tucker, Adam Willey, and Drew Yonker. The seven senior cheerleaders are Jenna Breen, Cailey Kutchma, Ariel Miller, Isaiah Shifflett, Audrey Stoewer, Cameron Upton, and Kendahl Whitwood.

The seniors will be recognized before the game starts. Seniors usually have posters made for them and receive gifts from their teammates.

“Knowing this is the last time I’ll be playing at West is sad because everyone that comes to the games at West is so supportive and loving. They stick with us no matter if we win or lose”, Tucker said. “I’ll miss playing in this gym.”

“It’s bittersweet. It’s sad knowing it’s the last time I’ll be cheering at West, but I’m also excited,” senior cheerleader Kendahl Whitwood shared.

Senior night is sad not just for the seniors, but the coaches as well.

“It’s sentimental coaching these seniors one more time at home. Three out of the four of them have been playing together since sixth grade,” basketball coach Brian Cupples said.

Friday’s game will be against #4 team in the state class 4A rankings, Danville high school.

“Friday will be a good game against Danville,” coach Cupples said. “They’re ranked #4 in the state and we’re ranked #5. Their team is fast and athletic. We need to focus on our defense and rebounding.”

“We’ve been working hard in practice. We’ll win if we come into the game focused and prepared,” Tucker added.

Friday’s game starts at 7:30 and the seniors will be recognized beforehand. Good luck to the Wildcats!