Basketball season is about to begin at Karns High School. Both the boys’ and girls’ teams are preparing for the first game of the season. The first game for the boys’ basketball team is at South Doyle High School on Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. The first game for the girls’ basketball team is at Cherokee High School on Nov. 17 at 6 p.m. Each team has four away games prior to the first home game of the season on Dec. 4 against Powell High School. Junior Varsity games are played at 5 p.m., prior to the girls’ games. The basketball homecoming game is Dec. 11 against Central High School. Senior night is currently scheduled for Jan. 22 when the Beavers will play against Halls High School. 

At games, players are expected to follow a long list of rules and precautions. Players will have to wear a mask at any point where they aren’t playing, including during timeouts. Each player will be seated 6 feet apart in their assigned seat on the bench. Teams will not be provided with a locker room at most away games and are not allowed to have team meals prior to home games.

Covid-19 restrictions will also be in place for those who attend basketball games. This includes masks, social distancing and a limited number of fans from each school. The first two rows of the bleachers will be taped off to leave room in between the team and spectators. Fans may wish to buy a season pass for all home games. Season passes cost $50 for students and $60 for adults. Those without season passes are not guaranteed entry into games due to limited seating. Tickets may be available for sale at the gate depending on availability. Tickets at the gate will cost $6 for both students and adults.

There is always a risk of game cancellations or rescheduling due to team quarantines or schools moving online. District games will be rescheduled if there is an issue, but it is unlikely that non-district games will. Despite the changes, the basketball teams are eager to begin competing once again. The coaches seem optimistic about the upcoming season.