In a show of strength for Region VIII, the state's top two 3A girls basketball teams will meet tonight at Manning's John Thames Arena when top-ranked Bishop England. 17-1 on the season, visits the No. 2 Lady Monarchs, 17-3 with control of the region on the line. The two teams have been expected to battle for the region crown, with tonight's matchup being heavily anticipated. Manning will travel to Bishop England on Feb. 5 in the regular-season finale for both teams.

Manning has won five straight games going back to a loss to Woodmont, the state's 3rd-ranked 5A team, in Bishop England's Carolina Invitational tournament. The Lady Monarchs also suffered losses to 4A power Wilson and to Oxbridge Academy of West Palm Beach, Florida, in the CresCom Invitational holiday tournament.The Lady Monarchs are lead by senior Ariyonia Busby and junior Measha Jones, both averaging 11.2 points per game and just under 10 rebounds. Junior Myisha Smiling is adding 10.9 points and 9.8 rebounds per game. Senior Niyah Brand is contributing 7.4 assists and 1.8 blocks per contest, as well.

Bishop England is getting the job done with a stout defense and good rebounding, averaging 24 steals per game and grabbing 20 boards. The Lady Bishops have held nine opponents under 30 points, and among in-state teams, only Porter Gaud and Wando have stayed within 10 points. Bishop England has notched six straight wins since suffering its only loss against St. Albans, from West Virginia, in the finals of the Carolina Invitational.

Sophomore Jahia Williams leads the Lady Bishops with 12 points and five steals per game. Katie Brooks is averaging 11.6 along with six rebounds and four steals, and Katie Cullum is averaging 10 points and four rebounds.