The Nansemond River varsity basketball team (Suffolk, VA) will host a non-conference game against Catholic (Virginia Beach, VA) today at 5 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Catholic vs Nansemond River
When: Today, February 8, 2025
Time: 5:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Catholic vs Nansemond River
As the 2024-2025 basketball season continues to unfold, two Virginia high school teams are making headlines with impressive performances: Catholic and Nansemond River. Each team has had strong showings in their respective regions, and their stats tell a story of competitive play, resilience, and standout individual performances. Let’s take a closer look at the teams’ season records, key players, and how they match up against common opponents.
Team Records and Rankings
- Catholic (24-25 Season):
- Overall Record: 16-8
- Region Record: 6-1
- Home Record: 8-2
- Away Record: 5-3
- Neutral Record: 3-3
- Winning Percentage: .667
- Region Winning Percentage: .857
- Points For: 1,583
- Points Against: 1,273
Catholic has proven to be a strong contender this season, with a solid 16-8 overall record. The team has dominated at home (8-2) and fared well in its region, boasting a 6-1 record. Their average points per game stands at 66.0, and they have displayed a strong offensive presence, led by standout player Ashton Walker.
- Nansemond River (24-25 Season):
- Overall Record: 14-5
- Region Record: 8-2
- Home Record: 9-0
- Away Record: 4-5
- Neutral Record: 1-0
- Winning Percentage: .737
- Region Winning Percentage: .800
- Points For: 1,289
- Points Against: 1,092
Nansemond River, while having one less win overall, boasts an even higher winning percentage (.737) and a stellar unbeaten home record (9-0). Their defense has been key, allowing just 1,092 points across the season. On average, the team scores 67.8 points per game and remains a dominant force, particularly in their home games.
Scoring and Key Player Performances
Both teams have been led by their star players, with Catholic’s Ashton Walker being a focal point in their offensive efforts.
- Catholic’s Key Stats:
- Points Per Game: Ashton Walker – 21.3
- Rebounds Per Game: Ashton Walker – 7.5
- Assists Per Game: Ashton Walker – 2.6
- Steals Per Game: Ashton Walker – 2.6
- Blocks Per Game: Martez Harris – 0.7
Walker’s dominance on both ends of the court has been a key to Catholic’s success. His impressive 21.3 points per game stands out, as does his all-around performance with 7.5 rebounds, 2.6 assists, and 2.6 steals per game.
- Nansemond River’s Key Stats:
- Points Per Game: Ashton Walker (Catholic) leads in this category, but Nansemond River’s key players have been impressive as well.
- Rebounds Per Game: Nansemond River’s leader in rebounds (Ashton Walker) has been a major contributor, and the team looks to continue maximizing this stat.
Common Opponents and Head-to-Head Matchups
Both teams have faced some of the same opponents this season, showcasing their strength and adaptability.
- Catholic vs. Nansemond River:
- Record Against Common Opponents: Catholic is 1-1, while Nansemond River is 1-0 against these teams.
- Key Matchups: Catholic faced Norfolk Collegiate twice, winning the most recent encounter 63-54. Nansemond River had a strong victory over Norfolk Collegiate earlier in the season, winning 68-52. However, Catholic faced Varina in a tough loss, while Nansemond River’s match with Varina is yet to conclude.
Playoff Picture and Future Outlook
Looking ahead, both teams will be looking to strengthen their positions as the season progresses. Catholic has been solid in region play, but Nansemond River’s perfect home record and balanced scoring and defense make them a tough opponent in the postseason.
Both teams will be hoping to make deep runs in their respective playoff brackets, and with the individual talent on display, fans can expect an exciting finish to the season. As both teams sharpen their strategies, the competition for regional and state titles will only intensify.
In conclusion, Virginia high school basketball is alive with fierce competition, and Catholic and Nansemond River are certainly teams to watch in the remainder of the season. With outstanding performances from players like Ashton Walker, both squads are showing what it takes to succeed in Virginia’s high school basketball scene.
