The Nevada (Rosston, AR) and Blevins (AR) varsity basketball teams are set to face off in a conference matchup that has the potential to be a closely contested game despite both teams enduring challenging seasons. With similar records and scoring dynamics, this game is crucial for both squads to build momentum in their respective campaigns.

Season Struggles and Records

Nevada enters the game with a 3-13 record, including a 1-3 mark in conference play. Their struggles on the road (1-7) mirror their overall challenges, highlighted by an average scoring margin of just 31.9 points per game compared to opponents’ 814 points allowed over the season.

Blevins is in a similar position, holding a 3-15 record and an identical 1-3 conference mark. Despite having no home wins this season (0-7), Blevins boasts a slightly higher offensive average of 34.7 points per game, thanks to consistent scoring efforts in the second half of games.

Key Metrics

Both teams’ scoring averages paint a picture of contrasting strengths:

• Nevada: Averages 31.9 points per game, struggling to find consistency throughout all four quarters.
• Blevins: Leans on stronger second-half performances, averaging 15.0 points in the third quarter and 13.0 in the fourth.

Head-to-Head Outlook

This will be the first of two conference games between Nevada and Blevins this season, with the second matchup scheduled for February 4 in Rosston. The January 7 game in Blevins will serve as a critical test for both teams to gain a mental edge in the season series.

Common Opponents and Previous Results

Both teams share a 1-8 record against common opponents. Nevada’s lone win came against Oden, a 44-24 victory showcasing their potential when executing well. Similarly, Blevins’ sole victory over a common opponent was a narrow 63-59 win against Umpire.

Key matchups from their common schedule include:

• Bradley: Both teams fell to Bradley by narrow margins, Nevada losing 36-27 and 39-34, while Blevins was defeated 50-31 and 44-40.
• Umpire: Nevada has yet to play their full schedule against Umpire, while Blevins claimed a win, demonstrating their ability to compete in close games.

What to Watch For

• Nevada’s Defense: With an average of 814 points allowed, their defensive performance will be critical. Can they limit Blevins’ late-game scoring surges?
• Blevins’ Home Struggles: Despite a winless record at home, the team has shown flashes of promise. Will this be the game they break their home drought?
• Momentum in the Series: Both teams desperately need a win, not only to boost morale but to set the tone for their February rematch.

Game Details

• When: January 7, 2025, at 6:00 PM
• Where: Blevins, AR

Both teams are hungry for victory, and while the records may suggest a low-stakes game, the implications for morale and momentum are significant. Expect a hard-fought battle as Nevada and Blevins look to turn their seasons around.