The Kanab High School varsity basketball team will host a non-conference game against Bryce Valley High School (Tropic, UT) on Saturday, January 11, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Bryce Valley vs Kanab
When: Saturday, January 11, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Bryce Valley vs Kanab

The Utah high school basketball season is in full swing, with Bryce Valley and Kanab standing out in their respective performances. Although both teams share the competitive stage, their paths this season have shown stark contrasts in rankings, records, and overall playstyle. Here’s an in-depth look at the two teams and how they stack up.

Team Records and Rankings

Kanab has emerged as a strong contender in Utah high school basketball, boasting an impressive 10-3 overall record. Ranked 39th in the state and 1st in their class, they remain undefeated in league play (4-0), which underscores their dominance in regional matchups. Their home-court advantage is evident, as they have clinched six wins in seven games at home.

Bryce Valley, on the other hand, holds a 24-25 overall ranking and an 8-7 record. Although their regional record of 2-3 and an away record of 7-2 demonstrate moments of resilience, inconsistencies in performance have kept them in the middle of the pack, ranked 93rd in the state and 8th in their class.

Scoring and Statistical Averages

Kanab leads the scoring averages with 57.4 points per game, compared to Bryce Valley’s 55.4. While Bryce Valley has shown balanced scoring in the first three quarters, their fourth-quarter struggles (11.2 points on average) have often resulted in close losses. In contrast, Kanab thrives in the final stretch, averaging 14.4 points in the fourth quarter, a testament to their ability to close out games effectively.

Key Team Stats:

• Rebounding: Kanab’s dominance on the boards (31.1 rebounds per game) outshines Bryce Valley’s 21.8.
• Assists: Kanab averages 13.9 assists per game, indicative of their cohesive team play.
• Steals and Blocks: Bryce Valley excels in defensive stats, averaging 9.1 steals and 2.1 blocks per game, slightly ahead in steals but trailing in blocks compared to Kanab (7.1 steals, 2.7 blocks).

Player Standouts

Both teams rely on their standout players to drive their performance:

• Bryce Valley: Luke Andrus (#10) is a versatile contributor, leading his team in points (12.8), rebounds (5.3), assists (3.1), and steals (2.8) per game. His all-around impact keeps Bryce Valley competitive in tight games.
• Kanab: Cash Mortensen (#1) leads Kanab with 13.8 points and 4.8 assists per game. Trajen Glazier (#22) complements Mortensen with a strong presence on the boards, averaging 6.6 rebounds and 2.0 blocks per game.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

Though Bryce Valley and Kanab have not faced each other this season, their matchups against common opponents tell a compelling story. Kanab has outperformed Bryce Valley, securing a 4-1 record compared to Bryce Valley’s 2-4. Notable differences include:

• Kanab’s decisive 70-37 win over Piute compared to Bryce Valley’s narrow 44-42 victory.
• Kanab’s dominance over Beaver (72-43) contrasted with Bryce Valley’s close loss (60-56).

Keys to Success Moving Forward

For Kanab, maintaining their offensive efficiency and rebounding dominance will be crucial as they aim to sustain their top-class performance. Their ability to perform under pressure, particularly in the fourth quarter, sets them apart as a formidable opponent.

Bryce Valley must address their fourth-quarter struggles and find ways to convert defensive stops into scoring opportunities. Continued leadership from Luke Andrus, along with greater contributions from the supporting cast, will be vital as they aim to climb the rankings.

Conclusion

Kanab and Bryce Valley bring distinct strengths to the court, each showcasing the depth and talent of Utah high school basketball. While Kanab has positioned itself as a regional powerhouse, Bryce Valley’s potential for growth keeps them in the conversation. As the season progresses, both teams will look to refine their strategies and make their mark in Utah’s basketball landscape.