There’s plenty of excitement in the voices of Hahnville’s Amani Williams and Destrehan’s Ka’Mi Johnson when they recount the nights they were named Homecoming Queen of their respective schools – each, in fact, seemed even happier for the other than their own crowning night.
It’s something that comes natural for the longtime best friends – each was in the crowd cheering when the other was crowned.
“I was overly happy for her,” said Williams with a smile. “I was cheering, just so happy to see my friend get that honor.”
Added Johnson, “We always want to see each other do well. I was really happy.”
But on Friday night, it was Homecoming Queen vs. Homecoming Queen in a completely different element – the two athletes were on the basketball court squaring off as Hahnville hosted Destrehan in the always heated rivalry battle.
While it was the first time the girls would matchup since earning their crowns, it was nothing new in another regard. They’ve been friends since they were very young, playing as teammates since the age of five and then as opponents since they were seven.
Now, both in their senior year, its the final year to face off as part of the Battle on the River rivalry.
“It’s been like this for four years,” said Johnson of the rivalry. “Everyone at school, you’re hearing ‘you’ve gotta win, y’all gotta beat them.’ People come out to the games to support us and it’s a lot of fun.”
On this night, it was a victory for Johnson and her Destrehan teammates – one of many this season for a team ranked seventh statewide in their classification.
But for both students, it’s already been a special senior year to share together.
“To see two best friends (named Homecoming Queen)? That’s pretty cool,” said Williams. “We put the work in, we make good grades and we try to do everything the right way.”
