A second straight holiday week brings a light schedule for area boys basketball teams, but as the calendar turns from 2018 to 2019, all games played become more and more important.

Many Big Country teams have either already started district play or do so this week. And those that won’t be playing league games Friday will be preparing to do so in short order. If you’re a high school basketball fan, there’s a lot to like about this time of year.

Here’s a look at what you can look forward to this week in the Big Country and what you might have missed last week.

Top Upcoming Matchups: It’s tough to call any game played in the first week of January a must-win, but that could be the situation the Abilene High Eagles find themselves in Friday when they host San Angelo Central at 7:30 p.m.