It has been four long years since the Warren Central boys basketball team defeated Vicksburg High.

This afternoon at 2:30, the Vikings (6-3) appear to have their best chance to stop the streak. The Vikings face the Gators (6-2) at their gym in the Division 4-6A opener for both teams.

WC coach Jesse Johnson is optimistic about his chances.

“Most definitely,” Johnson said. “I think we match up well with them. We have similar teams. They have a big scorer in (Mychal) Ammons while we have Kourey (Davis). I believe we can match their intensity on defense.”

The Gators have tradition on their side. For the past four years, Vicksburg has been one of the top teams in the state with consecutive trips to the state tournament at the Mississippi Coliseum. Last season, the Gators finished 25-4 with a top seven ranking.