It is the time of the year where boys and girls all over the nation state what they want for Christmas. Then there are those private dreams of receiving something that are never declared because they know it would be seeming impossible. 

Take for instance a high school basketball player. There isn’t a one that hasn’t imagined what it would be like playing on a National Basketball Association (NBA) court. The reality is that only a handful of the millions of kids across the nation each year who have that desire will ever get the chance. It is such a longshot that to even hope for the chance is merely a “dream wish” except for the elite few.

Christmas has come early for the members of the girls and boys basketball teams at Saline High School and Cedar Creek in Ruston as on Monday, their “dream wish” was realized when it was announced that the two schools would play against each other at the Smoothie King Center, home of the New Orleans Pelicans. The  game will be played on January 5th, 2024, when first the two girls team, then the boys, will play followed by the Pelicans taking on the Los Angeles Clippers.

The contest was made available when Saline head boys basketball coach, Klint Robinson, inquired about a special “Court of Dreams” promotion being conducted by the Pelicans. Seeing what dates were available he then called and talked to Cedar Creek head boys basketball coach Lance Waldrin, to see if they would be interested in playing the game scheduled between the two in New Orleans instead of Saline that day.

“I didn’t have to try very hard to get them (Cedar Creek) to agree,” laughed Robinson. “They were excited as I was about playing in New Orleans.”

Robinson also stated how much he appreciated everyone who helped make this possible.

“I really appreciate everyone who helped make this possible and special mention needs to be given to Saline SRO, Bentley Williams, who played a big role in this.”

Saline supporters can purchase tickets by calling Saline HIgh School at (318) 576 – 3215 or by going to the school located at 1255 Cooper Street in Saline. The cost to purchase a ticket to the contests is $25.00 each, which covers all three games. Also donations to help defray the expense of the trip are being accepted.

“This is an incredible opportunity for the kids from both schools,” said Robinson. “Your help in making this dream come true would be the greatest Christmas gift ever.”