The Cherokee Trail Cougars (14-7) and Cherry Creek Bruins (15-6) are set to face off in an exciting matchup on Thursday, February 20, 2025, at 5:30 p.m. at Cherry Creek’s home court. This game comes on the heels of a narrow 49-48 loss for Cherokee Trail in their previous meeting on January 31, which highlighted the competitive nature of the two teams. Both teams boast impressive records, and the game promises to be another thrilling contest.

Team Overview

Cherokee Trail comes into the game with a solid overall record of 14-7, including a 5-2 mark in league play. Their performance is strong both at home (5-0) and on the road (6-3), though they’ve faced challenges in neutral-site games (3-4). On average, the Cougars score 54.4 points per game and allow 44.1 points, leading to a healthy 66.7% win percentage. Their offense is led by standout players like Aaliyah Broadus, who averages 14.2 points per game, and Delainey Miller, who grabs 7.9 rebounds per game.

Cherry Creek, with a slightly better overall record of 15-6, is equally strong. The Bruins have excelled in league play (6-1) and boast an impressive 7-3 record at home. Their offense averages 59.6 points per game, showing a slightly higher scoring pace compared to Cherokee Trail. Key contributors include Braelynn Barnett, who averages 11.6 points and 6.5 rebounds per game, and Ari Boyd, who leads the team in assists with 3.3 per game.

Last Game Recap

In their previous meeting on January 31, 2025, Cherry Creek edged out Cherokee Trail 49-48 in a thrilling contest. Cherokee Trail was up at halftime, leading 19-9, but Cherry Creek came from behind in the second half, outscoring the Cougars 28-18 to claim victory. Cherokee Trail struggled to finish strong, despite a solid performance from Broadus, who scored 14 points.

Key Matchup: Offense vs. Defense

Cherokee Trail’s balanced offensive attack is spearheaded by Broadus and Miller, who are both critical in the team’s scoring and rebounding efforts. Meanwhile, Cherry Creek’s scoring unit, led by Barnett and Boyd, thrives on a slightly more dynamic approach, with a better second-half scoring rate.

The game could come down to the efficiency of the Cougars’ offense against the Bruins’ superior defense, particularly in the closing moments. Cherokee Trail has averaged 57.2 points per game this season, while Cherry Creek has scored an average of 59.7 points. Their ability to close out tight games will be key.

Statistical Comparison

Cherokee Trail:

• Points per game: 54.4
• Rebounds per game: 27.6
• Assists per game: 13.2
• Steals per game: 10.3
• Blocks per game: 1.1

Cherry Creek:

• Points per game: 59.6
• Rebounds per game: 30.4
• Assists per game: 13.3
• Steals per game: 14.1
• Blocks per game: 0.0

Cherry Creek holds a slight edge in points per game, rebounding, and steals. However, Cherokee Trail’s ability to hold its ground, especially in defensive plays, could allow them to challenge the Bruins.

Team Leaders

Cherokee Trail:

• Aaliyah Broadus: 14.2 points per game
• Delainey Miller: 7.9 rebounds per game
• Madeline Gibbs: 1.9 steals per game

Cherry Creek:

• Braelynn Barnett: 11.6 points per game
• Ari Boyd: 3.3 assists per game
• Molly Dorighi: 3.0 steals per game

The performance of these key players will likely determine the outcome of the game.

Common Opponents

Both teams share a 6-3 record against common opponents, including matchups with teams like Legend, Millennium, and Smoky Hill. While both squads have had their share of losses, they have also been able to bounce back with impressive victories, showing resilience throughout the season.

Looking Ahead

As the season progresses, this game will have significant implications for both teams in terms of playoff positioning and momentum. Cherokee Trail will be looking to bounce back from the earlier defeat and make a statement on the road. Cherry Creek, with home-court advantage and the confidence from their last win, will aim to continue their strong form.

Fans can expect an intense, fast-paced game with plenty of action on both sides of the court.