Edwardsville coach Mike Waldo instructs his players at a recent practice. Edwardsville coach Mike Waldo and Alton coach Eric Smith are both expecting the normal excellent varsity basketball game tonight between the two rivals.

Smith said when the two teams play the enthusiasm is always there. He also said he looks for a large crowd at the game tonight.

Get The Latest News!

Don't miss our top stories and need-to-know news everyday in your inbox.

Article continues after sponsor message

Waldo said Alton is an excellent team and the Redbirds have provided the Tigers with several good games over the years.

“It is a very good rivalry between us and them,” he said. “Alton has a lot of good athletes and their coach does a good job of putting them in position for success. We have played a very difficult stretch of our schedule over the last three weeks. We are trying to work on our deficiencies and get better.”

Edwardsville is 9-6 going into the game; Alton is 13-3. The Southwestern Conference battle should start in the 7:30 to 8 p.m. range after the junior varsity matchup.

Prefer RiverBender on Google
Copyright 2026 Riverbender.com. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

 

More like this:

Auto Butler Male Athlete Of The Month For The Redbirds: Alex Pilger Was A Team Player
4 days ago
Collinsville Baseball Has 'Competitive Team' In 2026 Against Tough Schedule
May 15, 2026
American Legion Post 199 Pushes Bold Edwardsville Golf Course Renewal
Jun 12, 2026
'Stellhorn Has Amazing Night In Goal:' Belleville West Plays Hard With Edwardsville Entire Girls Soccer Regional Match
May 23, 2026
Alton Baseball Looks to Bounce Back Against Edwardsville
Apr 8, 2026