Patrick Henry outscored Cave Spring 20-6 in the second quarter to take an 11 point halftime lead.

There’s a lot of similarities between Tuesday’s practice at Cave Spring, and this day two years ago. Excitement and energy left over from a State Semifinal thriller, the Knights are a mere 48 hours away from the Class 3 Championship game. The difference between now and then though, is a healthy dose of gratefulness, and surely nothing standing in their way.

Northside held a brief fourth quarter lead before Cave Spring's defense helped lead them to victory.

The Knights have four players averaging double-digit scoring.

Roanoke, Va. – The Lord Botetourt Cavaliers opened their season Wednesday, hosting James River. Kyle Arnholt lead the way for Lord Botetourt with 25 points, and James River’s Patrick Clevenger had 24 for the Knights. Meanwhile, Roanoke County schools hit the practice courts Wednesday after being cleared to compete Tuesday afternoon. The biggest difference since Tuesday is Roanoke County schools have been cleared for competition, which means teams can integrate passing the ball at practice. “You practice every day like you’re going to play so that’s our attitude towards every practice, that you’re going to play.

In his 6th year at Cave Spring, he helped lead the Knights to a state title under head coach Jacob Gruse. “Coach Gruse, he’s been unbelievable, he’s taught me many things on and off the court but I’m looking forward to the next chapter,” Humphries said. The next chapter is a head coaching position at his alma mater, James River High School. A lot of the pride comes from its only boys basketball state title in 2010, a game Humphries helped win. I’m excited to be back in the community, I know what a great community it is, just happy to compete with them,” he finished.

ROANOKE, Va. – Cave Spring hasn't run into many teams that can match them but their opponent in the River Ridge District final is one of them. The Knights have been battle tested all season and feel confident heading into Friday nights contest against Patrick Henry. Now sitting at 19-4, with a regular season district title already in the case,this once-young team is showing poise to make a deeper run. "These guys have been battle tested," said head coach Jacob Gruse. Cave Spring will battle Patrick Henry for the River Ridge District Tournament title at 6 p.m. Friday.