ROCKINGHAM — Local fans will get a chance to hang out with the Richmond Raider basketball team on Thursday.
Richmond Senior High School announced on Wednesday that a meet and greet will be held at Striker’s Bowling Alley in Rockingham.
Set for 5-7 p.m., fans of all ages are encouraged to come out and support the team before it plays in the 4A state championship game on Saturday.
The Raiders have been hard at work all week in the gym since clinching the 4A East regional championship last Saturday against Holly Springs High School.
While “the job still needs to be finished” on the court, head coach Donald Pettigrew said the team wants to take time to thank its fans.
“This is a great opportunity for our guys and coaches to meet with our fans who have been amazing all season,” Pettigrew said. “A lot of people are supporting us and we want to show our gratitude for what they’ve done to help us.
“We are about a lot more than just basketball, and the community is a part of our family,” he added. “I want our guys to see all of that love and support and I want them to enjoy this part of the experience.”
All of Richmond’s 14 varsity players, along with Pettigrew and the team’s eight assistant coaches are expected to attend.
Fans will have the chance to talk with players and coaches, as well as take photos with their favorite Raiders.
Richmond will practice on Thursday and Friday before heading to Chapel Hill for Saturday’s title game.
Tip-off between Richmond (28-2) and Myers Park (27-4) is set for 7:30 p.m. at the Dean E. Smith Center.
The Richmond Observer will publish a state championship game preview later in the week.
