After months of preparation, the road to the post-season state playoffs has finally begun for the Westside boys basketball team. Entering the district tournament, they have a 13-9 record and a number two seed. the team, consisting of 14 players, including nine seniors looks to carry their success to this weekend.

The team’s biggest obstacle on the road to state would be Omaha South, ranked number one in the state with a 23-1 record. They would play South in the second round of districts should both teams win. Although Westside only lost by five last time, they will have to play one of their best games of the season to win. To get there, fixing the small things is the key.

“We’re working hard every day, trying to get better even at this time of the year we still got things to improve on so we’re going after it like we always do.” head coach Brian Nemecek said.

As with any playoff team, it needs leaders to step up and push the team. For Westside, the team looks to senior Sam Frankel for this.

“I think that our inspirational leader is Sam Frankel, I think that he has busted his tail all year and really tries to do what’s best for the team.” Nemecek said. “We have some talented players but he’s filled in the glue this year.”

To get to South, though, Westside will have to play Burke on Saturday at 5:00. Burke is ranked eighth  in the state with an 11-11 record and beat Westside on senior night Feb. 20. Although the Warriors lost last time, Nemecek has faith the team can win.

“I’m confident, I mean, I think that we (could) clean up a few things from our previous game that we played (and) I think that we’ll see a lot of good things happen.” Nemecek said.

With this in mind, it’s win or go home for Westside, good luck Warriors.