Taking a quick look at the remaining schedule for the top-ranked Lake Clifton boys basketballl team, it's safe to say if the Lakers (17-0) manage to end the regular season undefeated, it will be a major accomplishment. The Lakers' final stretch of five games is, to say the least, a challenging one.

First up this afternoon is a visit from No. 6 Digital Harbor, which brings guards George and Justin Jackson and a strong supporting cast. On Friday, the Lakers host a Mervo team that knocked off previously-ranked Edmondson last week. Next Tuesday, Lake Clifton travels to No. 4 Walbrook with the task of shutting down do-it-all standout Roscoe Smith. The following Thursday, the Lakers play a make-up game against Edmondson before closing out the regular season on Friday, Feb. 20 at Patterson, which entered the poll at No. 15 this week.

Coach Herman Harried said the stretch "speaks for itself" and it provides an ideal opportunity to prepare for the upcoming playoffs. He adds the potential of a perfect regular season clearly takes a back seat to other team goals. "Undefeated in the regular season doesn't win championships. It would be great to say we were undefeated, but even better to say we were undefeated with 'x' amount of championships," said Harried.

-- Glenn Graham