The Blythewood (SC) varsity basketball team is set to host Ridge View (Columbia, SC) for a home conference game today at 3:30 PM.

Game Details

• Teams: Ridge View vs Blythewood
• Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
• Time: 3:30 PM
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Location: Blythewood High School

Ridge View vs. Blythewood: A Battle of South Carolina Basketball Powerhouses

As the South Carolina high school basketball season heats up, one of the most anticipated matchups is the upcoming game between Ridge View and Blythewood. The Ridge View Blazers (16-7, 9-0 region) will take on the Blythewood Bengals (20-3, 9-1 region) in what promises to be an exciting conference clash. This game marks the second of their regular-season encounters, with the first set to take place in Blythewood today at 3:30 PM, and the return game at Ridge View on February 14 at 7:30 PM.

Team Records and Rankings

Both teams have had impressive seasons so far, but Blythewood holds the edge with a stronger overall record. Ridge View, with a 16-7 record, has dominated their region, finishing undefeated in conference play with a perfect 9-0 record. However, Blythewood’s 20-3 overall record and 9-1 region mark showcase their remarkable consistency throughout the season, with only one conference loss. Blythewood’s success is highlighted by their high win percentage of .870 compared to Ridge View’s .696.

Scoring and Statistical Comparison

Both teams are known for their strong offensive outputs, with Ridge View averaging 67.6 points per game and Blythewood slightly ahead at 68.0. Ridge View’s offense is spearheaded by standout player TJ Lewis, who averages an impressive 26.2 points per game, while Blythewood’s leading scorer, Jaden Williams, contributes 18.3 points per contest.

The teams also differ in how they score throughout the game. Ridge View’s balanced scoring sees them averaging 15.3 points in the first quarter and increasing to 18.1 points in the final quarter. Blythewood, on the other hand, starts strong with 17.3 points in the first quarter but struggles a little in the fourth, averaging just 14.6 points.

Rebounding and Defense

When it comes to rebounding and defense, Ridge View has the advantage. They average 37.9 rebounds per game, with Tyler Stephens pulling down 7.7 boards per game. Meanwhile, Blythewood averages 33.7 rebounds per game, with Blake Howard leading the charge at 6.0 rebounds per game. Both teams excel in steals, with Ridge View averaging 10.8 steals per game, led by TJ Lewis at 2.5 steals, while Blythewood has 8.7 steals, with James Johnson contributing 2.0 steals.

In terms of blocking shots, Ridge View is again superior, averaging 2.4 blocks per game, while Blythewood averages just 1.3 blocks. Torrean Sims leads Ridge View with 0.6 blocks per game, whereas Blythewood’s Ethan Allen is the team’s top shot blocker with 0.3 blocks per game.

Head-to-Head Record

Both teams have fared well against common opponents this season. Ridge View has been flawless against mutual opponents with a 10-0 record, while Blythewood is 10-1 against the same teams. These stats show just how competitive both squads are, as they’ve both managed to outpace their regional rivals. Ridge View has consistently defeated teams like West Florence, Spring Valley, and Lugoff-Elgin, while Blythewood has similarly posted strong victories over those teams, including a dominant 91-50 win over West Florence.

Upcoming Games and Playoff Picture

The two teams are expected to meet once more this season on February 14, which could decide the region title. Both teams will likely remain competitive in the state playoff race, with Ridge View holding a 13-0 in-state record and Blythewood at 17-3 in-state. Each team has a few out-of-state games that have kept them sharp, but it’s their regional games that will truly define their postseason hopes.

For Ridge View, the key to victory will be maintaining their defensive intensity and leaning on their big-time scorer, TJ Lewis, who has been a game-changer all season. On the other hand, Blythewood’s balance between offensive firepower and defense could prove to be the difference. With strong performances across the board, especially from Jaden Williams and Blake Howard, the Bengals will look to assert themselves on their home court and take another step toward securing the region crown.

Conclusion

As Ridge View and Blythewood prepare for their next matchup, fans can expect a battle of two talented, well-coached teams, each vying for supremacy in South Carolina high school basketball. Ridge View’s balanced team play and strong defensive efforts will face off against Blythewood’s high-scoring offense and overall depth. With both teams having a lot at stake in the region, this game will certainly be one to watch as they gear up for the postseason.