Two rivals will play a district girls basketball game Friday - but in front of no fans

Amid a district-wide investigation into racial-slur allegations between two rival schools, the Class 3A West Central/Southwest bi-district first-round game between Gig Harbor and Peninsula on Friday night has been closed to the public.

The alleged incident took place after a 3A SSC game between Peninsula and the host Tides on Jan. 11.

The two teams met again Feb. 3 in Purdy with spectators in the stands - a game won by the Seahawks, 65-23, to win the league title.

In a statement released through Peninsula School District, superintendent Krestin Bahr said the decision to close this 6 p.m. playoff game to spectators was on the advice of the district's legal team.

"As a community, we need to allow the investigation process to continue, and withhold any judgment until the investigation is complete," Bahr said in the released statement.

Only schools' administration, coaches and players, as well as NFHS and local radio broadcasters will be allowed into the game.

If a spectator purchased a ticket in advance, it will be reimbursed through the West Central District III GoFan account.

The winner will play the North Thurston-Evergreen of Vancouver victor in the district semifinals Wednesday.