The Clayton (NC) varsity basketball team will host Garner (NC) for a home conference game today at 7:30 p.m.
Here’s what you need Basketball to know:
What: North Carolina High School Basketball
Who: Clayton (NC) vs Garner (NC)
When: Friday, January 3, 2025
Time: 7:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here
Basketball Showdown: Garner vs. Clayton – A Conference Rivalry Heats Up
As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season rolls on, fans of Garner and Clayton are gearing up for an exciting conference matchup that will feature two of the top teams in the area. Garner (7-2) and Clayton (6-3) will clash in a pivotal game that could have major implications for the conference standings. With both teams boasting strong performances so far this season, this game promises to be a must-watch.
Team Overview
Garner (7-2)
Garner has been impressive this season with a record of 7-2. The team has shown its strength both at home (4-0) and in neutral-site games (3-1). Garner’s offense has averaged 64.7 points per game, and they’ve had a solid defensive showing, allowing 512 points across their nine games. Leading the charge for Garner is Andrew Grimes, who has been the team’s top scorer, averaging 14.7 points per game, while also contributing 6.2 rebounds per contest. Aiden Smalls has also been a standout, leading the team in assists (4.0) and steals (1.8) per game.
Clayton (6-3)
Clayton has had a strong start to the season with a 6-3 record, including a perfect 3-0 home record. Their offense has averaged 68.3 points per game, slightly ahead of Garner, while they’ve allowed 523 points over their nine games. Clayton’s Trey Griffin has been pivotal to their success, contributing 16.0 points per game. The team also relies on strong play from Davis Smith, who has averaged 5.3 assists and is a key facilitator on offense.
Head-to-Head Breakdown
This rivalry game is crucial as both teams have shown solid performances in common matchups. Garner comes into the game with a 2-1 record against common opponents, with notable wins over South Garner and Willow Spring. Clayton, on the other hand, has gone undefeated (2-0) against the same opponents, having recently defeated Millbrook 65-62 and South Garner 91-61.
In their most recent meetings, both teams have demonstrated strong offensive capabilities. Garner’s scoring has been balanced, with an impressive 64.9 points per game on average. In contrast, Clayton has been explosive in the second half of games, with their fourth-quarter average of 19.8 points standing out. Clayton’s scoring depth, led by key players like Jalen Edwards and Jordan Clark, makes them a formidable opponent.
Statistical Comparison
| Category | Garner | Clayton |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 64.7 | 68.3 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 29.1 | 27.3 |
| Assists Per Game | 12.4 | 13.1 |
| Steals Per Game | 6.6 | 7.2 |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.7 | 3.1 |
Key Players to Watch
For Garner, Andrew Grimes will be the focal point. Not only does he lead the team in scoring, but his ability to grab rebounds and play tough defense will be critical against Clayton’s talented lineup. On the defensive end, Preston Copeland (1.1 blocks per game) will need to step up and contest shots in the paint.
On the Clayton side, Trey Griffin has been a dynamic scorer and will likely be a handful for Garner’s defense. Davis Smith is also a key contributor, handling the ball and setting up the offense. The combination of Griffin’s scoring and Smith’s playmaking could pose a serious challenge for the Garner defense.
Looking Ahead
With both teams having strong conference records, this game could determine which squad remains in contention for the top spot in their conference. Garner, with its undefeated conference record, will be looking to maintain its perfect league run, while Clayton has yet to lose a conference game and will be eager to build on its momentum.
As the two teams prepare for their showdown, the stakes are high, and fans can expect an intense and hard-fought battle. Whether it’s the scoring ability of Clayton or the balanced attack of Garner, one thing is for certain: this game will be one to remember.
Upcoming Games
After today’s matchup, Garner and Clayton will meet again on January 31 at Garner’s home court, where the rivalry will continue to unfold. With both teams eyeing a top spot in the conference, fans are in for a thrilling season ahead.
