The Bolton High School varsity basketball team will host a non-conference game against Craigmont High School (Memphis, TN) on Friday, December 20, 2024, at 7:30 PM.

Here’s what you need to Basketball know:

What: Tennessee High School Basketball
Who: Bolton vs Craigmont
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Craigmont vs. Bolton: A High School Basketball Showdown

The basketball season is heating up as Craigmont High School (Memphis, TN) prepares to take on Bolton High School (Arlington, TN) in two exciting upcoming matchups. The first game is set for Friday, December 20, at Bolton’s home court, with the return fixture happening on Monday, January 13, at Craigmont.

Team Overview

Craigmont (2-5 overall) is still finding its rhythm this season. They are led by key players such as E’darian Washington, who is averaging 19.7 points per game, and Rashad MacLin, who leads the team in rebounds with 8.1 per game. Craigmont has had its challenges, struggling to maintain consistency, but they are looking to make improvements as the season progresses. The team’s overall scoring average stands at 44.6 points per game, but they’ve shown they can score in bursts, especially in the second and third quarters (25.0 and 26.0 points, respectively).

On the other hand, Bolton (5-5 overall) has shown a much more balanced approach this season, with a 79.9 points per game average. Bolton has had a productive campaign, led by Kylan Collins, who excels in several areas, including averaging 5.0 assists per game, 4.9 steals per game, and contributing 0.6 blocks per game. Bolton’s offense is explosive, particularly in the fourth quarter, where they average 27.0 points. The team’s defensive stats are also impressive, with 13.3 steals per game.

Head-to-Head Matchup

These two teams have yet to face off this season, but their upcoming games promise intense competition. The first game on December 20 will take place at Bolton’s home court, where Bolton has a solid 3-2 away record. Craigmont, with a 1-1 home record, will look to make a statement on the road. The return game on January 13 at Craigmont will be equally thrilling, as both teams aim to earn bragging rights and a crucial victory in the non-conference schedule.

Key Players and Stats

For Craigmont, E’darian Washington is the standout offensive weapon, and his 19.7 points per game could prove pivotal in this matchup. Kylan Collins, though known for his defense, also contributes significantly to Bolton’s offense, and his ability to generate turnovers could disrupt Craigmont’s offensive flow. Rahsad MacLin, with his team-leading rebound numbers, will need to dominate the glass to give Craigmont a chance at limiting Bolton’s second-chance points.

Bolton’s team statistics paint a clear picture of a high-scoring, aggressive team. Collins’ steals and assists are key to creating fast breaks, while the team’s block and rebound stats show their strength on defense. Bolton’s scoring depth means they can rely on multiple players to contribute points at crucial moments.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced similar opponents, providing some insight into how they might match up. Bolton has already faced Raleigh-Egypt, Munford, and Brighton, securing wins and losses along the way. Meanwhile, Craigmont will soon meet these same teams, with their results potentially shedding light on the performance difference between the two squads. Bolton’s 1-2 record against common opponents, contrasted with Craigmont’s undefeated record in these games (0-0), suggests Bolton may have had a tougher non-league schedule.

Key Stats Comparison

• Scoring Per Game: Craigmont averages 44.6 PPG, while Bolton leads with 79.9 PPG.
• Rebounds Per Game: Craigmont has the edge with 26.5 RPG, but Bolton’s overall offensive firepower may overwhelm this stat.
• Assists and Steals: Bolton excels in both categories with 12.2 assists and 13.3 steals per game, setting the stage for fast-paced action.
• Blocks: Craigmont’s 0.6 blocks per game is more than Bolton’s 0.3, giving Craigmont an edge in rim protection.

What to Expect

The upcoming games between Craigmont and Bolton promise a clash of styles. Craigmont will aim to slow the pace down and use their defense and rebounding to keep Bolton’s explosive offense in check. Bolton, however, will look to run the floor and use their superior scoring ability to overpower Craigmont.

As these teams face off, it will be a battle of consistency against high-octane offense. Can Craigmont control the tempo, or will Bolton’s firepower prove too much to handle?

Conclusion

With the season at the midpoint, the December 20 and January 13 matchups between Craigmont and Bolton are crucial for both teams as they continue to find their rhythm in the 2024-2025 season. Fans can expect a thrilling contest filled with fast breaks, intense defense, and some standout individual performances. The result of these games could set the tone for the remainder of the season for both teams.