Pella Christian will kick off the 2017-18 winter sports season against a state qualifying basketball team at Eagle Lane tonight.

The Eagles girls welcome Van Meter for the season opener. Pella Christian has faced the Bulldogs each of the last four seasons — and twice in the playoffs, splitting the recent series 2-2, including a 56-43 win to start last season.

Head Coach Kevin Van Maanen says the key for the girls is to have a good night defensively–which he feels will be a strength this season.

“Van Meter is a well coached team and they have a lot of shooters. They’re balanced and my concern there is can we defend the three-point line and not give up layups. Sometimes you defend the three-point line too hard and then you over close out and give up drives.”

Pella Christian and Van Meter will look to receive the opening tip off at Pella Christian High School at 5:30 p.m.