Students and staff at Washington High School get tomorrow off to watch their boy's basketball team play for a state championship.

The school is giving the team a send off today before heading over to the Peoria Civic Center for a shoot-around.

Friday at noon at Carver Arena is the team's Class 3-A state semifinal against Chicago Marshall.

This is the first time the Panthers have played in the Illinois High School Association's state finals since 1962.

Forward Bret Holmes said, "It is amazing. I am so stoked for it and I hardy could sleep last night I was so excited and really pumped to go out there and get the job done. They've (the fans) been here all year and I can't believe how amazing it is, how much support they've given us."

Whatever happens this weekend, the Washington community will honor their team with a parade beginning at 3 o'clock Sunday... that will be followed by a 4 o'clock pep rally at the high school.