The Dakota Valley varsity basketball team from North Sioux City, SD, will face Gehlen Catholic from Le Mars, IA, in a neutral non-conference game today at 7 p.m.

Game Details:

• Teams: Gehlen Catholic vs. Dakota Valley
• Date & Time: Saturday, January 11, 2025, at 7 p.m.
• Event: Border Battle at the Sanford Pentagon
• Live stream: Watch Here

Comparing Gehlen Catholic and Dakota Valley: A Look at Their Performance in the 2024-2025 Season

As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season continues, Gehlen Catholic and Dakota Valley have displayed unique strengths and challenges on the court. Both teams have shown moments of promise, but their season records tell different stories. Here’s an in-depth look at their rankings, team statistics, and individual performances.

Team Records and Performance Breakdown

Gehlen Catholic has posted a balanced record of 5-5 overall, with a 1-4 conference record. While they have struggled in league play, the team’s success at home (4-0) and their ability to compete at a neutral site (1-0) demonstrates that they can perform in familiar environments. However, their away record (0-5) reveals a weakness in traveling to opponents’ courts. Despite these struggles, Gehlen Catholic has managed to score a total of 492 points, with an average of 49.2 points per game.

On the other hand, Dakota Valley has been nothing short of dominant, posting an undefeated 6-0 record overall and a perfect 2-0 record in region play. Their performance on both home and away courts has been impressive, with a flawless 4-0 mark at home and a 2-0 record on the road. They have outscored their opponents significantly, accumulating 426 points and averaging an impressive 71.0 points per game.

Scoring Comparison and Team Strengths

When it comes to offensive production, Dakota Valley leads with an average of 71.0 points per game, far outpacing Gehlen Catholic’s 49.2. Dakota Valley’s offense is well-balanced, with the team scoring an average of 14.8 points in the first quarter, steadily increasing to 21.3 points in the third. Gehlen Catholic, in contrast, has struggled to maintain consistent scoring throughout the game, with their total points per game reflecting a more modest output.

Looking at individual player contributions, both teams have standout performers. Luke Bruns, for Gehlen Catholic, has been exceptional with 24.4 points per game and 7.6 rebounds per game, ranking among the best on his team. He has also contributed on defense, averaging 2.4 steals per game. For Dakota Valley, the team’s leader in points per game is Tatum Sorensen, who has provided consistent scoring and defensive efforts. However, Dakota Valley‘s total team effort, including 15.8 assists per game and 8.4 steals per game, has allowed them to dominate offensively and defensively.

Key Team Stats: Rebounding, Assists, and Defense

Both teams have seen strong individual performances in key statistical areas. Gehlen Catholic’s standout player, Luke Bruns, has been a force on both ends of the floor. His 7.6 rebounds per game have been crucial in giving Gehlen Catholic extra possessions. In contrast, Dakota Valley has shown their defensive prowess with an average of 8.4 steals per game, led by several players contributing defensively. Additionally, Dakota Valley’s team effort in 33.2 rebounds per game and 15.8 assists per game showcases a balanced approach to offense and defense.

In terms of shooting, Dakota Valley has been the more well-rounded team, shooting efficiently and creating scoring opportunities through ball movement. Gehlen Catholic’s struggles in scoring, especially in away games, suggest that their offensive strategies may need refining in order to compete with top-tier teams like Dakota Valley.

Summary and Outlook

As the season progresses, Dakota Valley appears to be in a strong position to continue their dominance with an undefeated record and stellar offensive and defensive statistics. They have proven themselves to be a well-rounded team capable of both scoring in bunches and locking down opponents.

For Gehlen Catholic, the road ahead will require adjustments to their strategy, particularly in away games, where they have yet to find success. Improving their scoring consistency and maximizing their home court advantage could be key to turning their season around.

Both teams still have much to prove, but Dakota Valley’s unbeaten record and well-balanced gameplay make them the team to watch as the season unfolds. Meanwhile, Gehlen Catholic has the potential to bounce back and make a push in the second half of the season, especially if they can find more success on the road and improve their offensive output.