The Custer (SD) varsity basketball team will be playing a home conference game against Belle Fourche (SD) today at 3:30 PM.

Game Details:

• Teams: Belle Fourche vs. Custer
• Date: Saturday, February 8, 2025
• Time: 3:30 PM
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Live stream: Watch Here
• Location: Custer High School Gymnasium

A Tale of Two Teams: Belle Fourche vs. Custer – A Comparative Analysis of the 2024-2025 Basketball Season

As the 2024-2025 South Dakota high school basketball season unfolds, the Belle Fourche Broncs and the Custer Wildcats have emerged as two teams with contrasting fortunes. In this analysis, we’ll explore the differences in their performances, statistics, and common opponents, providing insights into how each team stacks up against one another as they head into the final stretch of the season.

Overall Performance and Record Breakdown

At a glance, the Belle Fourche Broncs (3-10 overall) are struggling to find their rhythm this season. With a 1-3 record in region play and a win percentage of just .231, the Broncs have faced several tough opponents. Their total points scored (565) compared to points allowed (738) highlights the challenges they have faced on both ends of the court.

In contrast, the Custer Wildcats have enjoyed a strong season, sitting at an impressive 13-3 overall. With a 5-0 home record and a solid win percentage of .812, Custer has been dominant in nearly every aspect. Their scoring differential of 991 points scored to 641 points allowed underscores their offensive firepower and defensive efficiency. The Wildcats’ strong 9-0 record in non-league games and 9-3 performance in-state further reflect their prowess on the court.

Team Scoring Averages

Looking at the scoring averages, Belle Fourche has shown a steady offensive performance with 10.0 points per quarter, leading to an average of 43.5 points per game. However, their defense has been a weak point, as they’ve allowed 738 points so far.

Custer, on the other hand, boasts a much more robust offense. They average 18.5 points in the first quarter and 22.5 points in the second quarter, leading to an overall average of 61.9 points per game. This scoring consistency, particularly in the first half, has allowed Custer to build significant leads early in games, which has been crucial in securing their victories.

Comparison of Team Statistics

• Belle Fourche has struggled with scoring and rebounding, averaging only 2.2 points per game and 1.5 rebounds per game.
• Custer has outpaced Belle Fourche in every statistical category, showing superiority in scoring, rebounding, and defensive efforts.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced several common opponents this season. Let’s break down the results against these teams:

• Spearfish: Belle Fourche fell 64-28 to Spearfish in December, while Custer will face Spearfish on February 13.
• Newcastle: Belle Fourche secured a 61-48 win over Newcastle in December. Custer, however, had a more dominant win, defeating Newcastle 66-31 in January.
• St. Thomas More: Belle Fourche lost 69-21, while Custer lost a close 53-50 game to St. Thomas More.
• Douglas: Belle Fourche struggled against Douglas, losing 50-40 in January. Custer, however, will face Douglas twice in early February, with victories predicted given their recent form.
• Lead-Deadwood: Belle Fourche was narrowly defeated by Lead-Deadwood, 68-67. Custer will take on Lead-Deadwood later in the season.
• Mahpiya Luta: Belle Fourche lost 75-52 to Mahpiya Luta, while Custer won 65-35 in January.

Home and Away Performance

The difference between the two teams is especially noticeable in their home and away records. Belle Fourche holds a modest 1-5 record away from home, while Custer has been dominant on their home court, sporting a perfect 5-0 record. Custer’s ability to win on the road (4-2) further highlights their overall dominance compared to Belle Fourche, which has struggled away from home (2-4).

The Road Ahead

As the season progresses, both teams have several crucial matchups that will define their respective seasons. Belle Fourche will need to improve both offensively and defensively to salvage a competitive season, with games against Sturgis Brown, Wall, and Rapid City Christian potentially offering opportunities for redemption.

Custer, however, appears primed for a deep postseason run, with favorable matchups on the horizon. Their ability to score consistently and defend effectively will be crucial as they aim for a region title and beyond.

Conclusion

In summary, while Belle Fourche faces significant challenges this season, particularly in terms of offensive consistency and defense, Custer has emerged as one of the top teams in the state. Their strong performances, especially in non-league games and at home, demonstrate that they are a force to be reckoned with. As the season unfolds, Custer looks set to continue their strong run, while Belle Fourche will need to adjust quickly to remain competitive in the region. The upcoming games will be vital for both teams as they navigate the final stretch of the season.