As the 2024-2025 Vermont high school basketball season unfolds, two competitive teams, Colchester and Champlain Valley Union (CVU), prepare for an exciting conference matchup. With their respective seasons off to strong starts, the December 27 clash promises to be an intense and closely contested game.

Team Overview: Colchester Lakers

Colchester enters the game with a solid 3-1 record, boasting a .750 winning percentage. The team has proven its mettle at home with a 2-1 record and has also clinched an away win. While their district record stands at 0-1, the Lakers’ non-league performance is a perfect 3-0. Scoring an average of 54 points per game, Colchester’s offense has been a key factor in their success.

However, the Lakers’ lone loss this season came against St. Johnsbury Academy (59-40), highlighting areas for potential improvement. The Lakers will aim to leverage their home court advantage in the future rematch scheduled for January 27, 2025, but their focus for now will be on maintaining their momentum on CVU’s turf.

Team Overview: Champlain Valley Union Redhawks

Champlain Valley Union, with a 2-1 record and a .667 winning percentage, has also demonstrated early promise. The Redhawks have excelled in home games, holding a 1-0 record, but their performance away from Hinesburg has been more mixed (1-1). Averaging 47.3 points per game, the Redhawks rely on a balanced offensive approach and a disciplined defense that has held opponents to just 111 points across three games.

CVU showcased their potential in a dominant win over Bellows Free Academy (48-33), underlining their ability to capitalize on opponents’ weaknesses. With no district games played yet, this matchup against Colchester represents a critical opportunity for CVU to establish themselves in conference play.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

This will be the first meeting between the Lakers and the Redhawks this season, setting the stage for a fresh rivalry. Both teams have faced St. Johnsbury Academy, with contrasting results—Colchester suffered a loss, while CVU emerged victorious. This contrast suggests that CVU may hold a slight edge in terms of defensive execution, though Colchester’s higher scoring average could tilt the scales in their favor.

What to Watch For

• Offensive Performance: Colchester’s scoring average of 54.0 points per game is a key advantage, but CVU’s defense, which has allowed just 111 points across three games, could prove a formidable challenge.
• Home Court Advantage: While CVU has yet to lose at home this season, Colchester’s ability to secure an away win earlier in the year makes them a credible threat.
• Key Players and Depth: Both teams will look to their stars to step up in this high-stakes conference game. Bench contributions could also play a pivotal role.

Looking Ahead

The December 27 game will serve as a precursor to the January 27 rematch in Colchester, where the Lakers will have the chance to defend their home court. Both teams are well-positioned for successful seasons, and their performance in this matchup could set the tone for the rest of their campaigns.

As fans gather in Hinesburg for Friday night basketball, one thing is certain: this Colchester vs. CVU clash is not to be missed. The tip-off is set for 7 PM—be there to witness Vermont high school basketball at its finest!