The Stevenson varsity water polo team from Pebble Beach, CA, is hosting a home playoff game against Buchanan from Clovis, CA, today at 5 PM. This match is part of the “2024 CIF NorCal Girls Water Polo Championships – Division II” tournament.

Buchanan vs Stevenson Water Polo Game Info:

What: California High School Water Polo
Who: Buchanan vs Stevenson
When: Tuesday, November 19, 2024
Time: 5 p.m.
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Game preview: Buchanan vs Stevenson

The Buchanan Bears and Stevenson Pirates face off tonight in a highly anticipated playoff game that promises to be a thrilling contest between two of California’s top-ranked high school girls’ water polo teams. Scheduled for 5 PM at Stevenson’s home pool in Pebble Beach, this matchup features teams with contrasting strengths and a recent history of close competition.

Team Overview

Buchanan Bears (Clovis, CA)

• Record: 17-12 overall, 4-6 in league play
• Strengths: A balanced offense led by standout #3 Addison Engelbert, who has scored 90 goals this season and taken 152 shots. Engelbert is supported by #6 Peyton Pendergrass with 45 assists and #11 Dillan Morris contributing 45 steals on defense.
• Scoring Averages: The Bears average 11 goals per game, with strong performances in the first and third quarters.

Stevenson Pirates (Pebble Beach, CA)

• Record: 19-9 overall, undefeated 6-0 in league play
• Strengths: A dominant force in league competition, Stevenson is spearheaded by #5 Emmerson Ferriera, who leads the team in goals (108), assists (40), and steals (26). Their ability to close games is evident with their 12.3 scoring average per game, powered by high-scoring early quarters.

Head-to-Head History

The teams last met on October 3rd in a tense neutral tournament game that required overtime. Stevenson edged out Buchanan 8-7, with Ferriera’s clutch performance in overtime proving decisive. The Pirates dominated the second quarter in that game, which set the stage for their eventual victory.

Key Matchup Insights

• Offense vs. Defense:
  Buchanan boasts a robust defense, with 261 steals this season, compared to Stevenson’s 120. However, Stevenson’s firepower, particularly Ferriera’s 108 goals, will challenge Buchanan’s backline.
• Playoff Performance:
  Stevenson has been a playoff juggernaut with a 3-1 record, compared to Buchanan’s 1-1. The Pirates have thrived under pressure, especially at home, where they are 6-2.
• Quarterly Trends:
  Stevenson’s explosive first and third quarters could prove decisive, while Buchanan must leverage their consistency across all quarters to keep pace.

Common Opponent Comparison

Both teams have faced Clovis and Clovis West this season. Buchanan is 2-2 against these opponents, including a dramatic 8-7 victory over Clovis West. Stevenson is 1-1, with a similar 14-12 win over Clovis West but a narrow 10-8 loss to Clovis.

Game Predictions

Expect a highly tactical game where turnovers and execution in key moments will be crucial. While Buchanan’s depth and defensive prowess provide an edge, Stevenson’s home advantage and offensive firepower make them slight favorites.

Game Details:

• When: 5 PM
• Where: Stevenson High School, Pebble Beach, CA

Fans can look forward to a thrilling battle between two evenly matched teams. The victor will move one step closer to the championship, solidifying their place as one of California’s premier high school water polo programs.