The Varina High School varsity basketball team will host a conference game against Armstrong High School on Friday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m. in Richmond, VA.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Armstrong vs Varina
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Armstrong vs Varina

As the 2024-2025 Virginia high school basketball season heats up, the Richmond basketball scene is buzzing with anticipation for the upcoming matchups, particularly the exciting conference game between Armstrong and Varina. Both teams have shown their strengths and weaknesses early in the season, and their upcoming game promises to be a thrilling contest.

Armstrong (1-4, 0-2 Region)

The Armstrong varsity basketball team has faced a challenging start to their season. With an overall record of 1-4 and a region record of 0-2, Armstrong has struggled to find consistency on both sides of the ball. Their offensive production averages 56.6 points per game, but they’ve struggled with defense, allowing an average of 64.6 points per game.

While the team’s scoring has been a point of concern, they have been competitive in several games, including close losses to Hanover (60-52) and Patrick Henry (70-51). Armstrong’s upcoming conference game against Varina will be crucial for their chances of turning their season around. The team will need to improve both offensively and defensively to challenge a strong Varina squad.

Varina (4-1, 1-0 Region)

On the other side of town, the Varina varsity basketball team has started their season on a high note. With a 4-1 overall record and a perfect 1-0 mark in the region, Varina has proven to be a formidable force early in the year. They have been highly efficient, averaging 67.8 points per game and maintaining a solid defense, giving up just 56 points per contest.

Varina’s balance on both ends of the floor has been key to their success. Their ability to score in all quarters, averaging 12.5 points in the first quarter, 14.5 in the second, 23.5 in the third, and 20.5 in the fourth, speaks to their depth and ability to adjust as the game progresses. They will look to continue their strong form against Armstrong, who will likely pose a challenge on their home floor.

Head-to-Head

The two teams will face off in a highly anticipated conference game on Friday, January 17, at 7:30 p.m. at Varina High School. Armstrong will be hoping to put their struggles behind them and secure a key victory to boost their confidence. Varina, however, will enter the game with momentum from their strong season start and will look to extend their winning streak. Armstrong will have to find a way to limit Varina’s scoring and execute on offense if they are to stand a chance.

A second matchup is set for Friday, February 7, at 7:30 p.m. at Armstrong, where both teams will look to build on their performances in this upcoming game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced some of the same opponents in the early stages of the season, providing some insight into how they stack up against similar competition. Armstrong has already faced Patrick Henry and Hanover, losing both matchups. Varina, on the other hand, has yet to face Hanover or Patrick Henry but will have opportunities to do so in the coming weeks.

As the season progresses, it will be interesting to see how both teams perform against these common opponents. Their records against teams like Henrico, Mechanicsville, and Highland Springs will be important as they seek to position themselves for a strong playoff run.

Outlook

Both Armstrong and Varina have significant challenges ahead of them, but they also have the potential to surprise. Armstrong will need to improve both its scoring and defense to compete with Varina’s high-scoring offense, while Varina will aim to stay consistent and maintain their early-season form. With both teams in the same region, these games will be pivotal as they fight for playoff positioning.

The first meeting on January 17 will undoubtedly be one to watch as both teams battle it out for supremacy in the Richmond area. Fans should expect a hard-fought game with plenty of intensity, as Armstrong looks to upset Varina and get back on track.