The Aiken Varsity Basketball team (Cincinnati, OH) will be playing a home conference game against Taft (Cincinnati, OH) today at 7:30 PM.
Game Details:
- Event: Taft vs Aiken Basketball
- Date & Time: Friday, January 24, 2025, at 7:30 PM
- Live stream: Watch Here
- Live stream: Watch Here
Taft vs. Aiken: A Cincinnati Basketball Showdown
The high school basketball scene in Cincinnati is heating up as two powerhouse teams, Taft and Aiken, are set to face off in a series of pivotal conference games this season. Both teams are boasting impressive records and dominant performances, making this rivalry one to watch closely as the season progresses.
Team Overview
- Taft (24-25)
With an overall record of 9-2 and a perfect 6-0 in conference play, Taft has been a formidable force in the league. Their high-scoring offense and tough defense have helped them outlast their opponents. The team has averaged 73.7 points per game this season, with standout performances from key players like Jakar’e Pouncy, who leads the team with 19.0 points per game. - Aiken (24-25)
Aiken has yet to be defeated, holding an undefeated record of 12-0. Like Taft, Aiken has been dominant in conference games, with a perfect 5-0 record. Aiken’s offense has been even more potent than Taft’s, averaging 80.4 points per game. Jaiden Arnold has been a standout for Aiken, averaging 19.9 points and leading the team in multiple categories.
Game Breakdown
The teams will face each other twice this season, with the first matchup set for tonight at 7:30 PM at Aiken. The second game will take place on February 7 at Taft. These contests will be critical for both teams as they look to maintain or improve their conference records.
Team Stat Comparison
| Stat | Taft | Aiken |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 73.7 | 80.4 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 32.8 | 32.8 |
| Assists Per Game | 17.2 | 17.2 |
| Steals Per Game | 11.5 | 11.5 |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.9 | 2.9 |
Both teams are fairly similar statistically, with Aiken having a slight edge in scoring, while Taft matches them in other key areas. Each team has its own dynamic strengths, and this will be key when they face off head-to-head.
Head-to-Head: Key Players
- Taft:
- Jakar’e Pouncy (19.0 PPG) is the offensive leader for Taft, putting up strong numbers each game.
- Tion Byrd (10.0 RPG) has been a solid force on the boards.
- Jaionte Jones (4.0 SPG) contributes defensively as well as on offense.
- Aiken:
- Jaiden Arnold (19.9 PPG) has been exceptional, leading the team not only in scoring but also contributing to the assists (5.2 APG) and steals (2.8 SPG).
- Tayvon Smith (7.1 RPG, 0.9 BPG) is a dominant presence in the paint, both offensively and defensively.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced off against a number of the same opponents this season, and their records against them are similar, with Taft holding a 6-0 record and Aiken at 5-0.
Notable common matchups include victories against teams like Western Hills, Hughes, and Withrow, demonstrating the high level of competition both teams have consistently beaten.
Looking Ahead
The upcoming matchups between Taft and Aiken are shaping up to be exciting contests. Aiken has yet to lose, while Taft will be aiming to hand them their first defeat. Fans can expect high-intensity basketball, with both teams boasting elite players and competitive spirit.
The first game at Aiken and the second at Taft will not only determine bragging rights but could also have significant implications for conference standings. These teams have shown they’re both capable of running the table in the conference, and the head-to-head contests will be pivotal for each team’s aspirations as the season progresses.
The rivalry between these two Cincinnati schools is a highlight of the high school basketball season, and it’s one fans won’t want to miss.
