The North Sanpete varsity basketball team from Mt. Pleasant, UT, will host a home conference game against Delta, UT, tonight at 7 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Delta vs North Sanpete
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Delta vs North Sanpete

As the Delta Rabbits gear up to take on the North Sanpete Hawks in a key away conference game, the stats tell a story of two teams heading in very different directions this season. The game, scheduled for today at 7 PM in Mt. Pleasant, Utah, promises a clash of contrasting fortunes and opportunities for players to shine.

Delta’s Dominance

Delta enters the matchup with a strong record of 8-2, including a solid 5-1 home record and 3-1 away. Their overall win percentage of 80% reflects their consistency this season, and their scoring stats support this dominance. The Rabbits average 56.5 points per game, significantly outpacing their opponents’ average scoring rate. Key performances have come from their leading scorer, #12 Bronco Bundy, who averages 10.1 points per game, and versatile forward #23 Kobe Driggs, who leads the team in rebounds (5.6 per game) and blocks (1.6 per game).

Delta’s team is particularly notable for their defensive prowess, averaging 10 steals per game. Guard #0 Mason Robinson spearheads this effort with 2.3 steals per contest. Their strong defensive and offensive balance has kept them competitive, even against tougher opponents.

North Sanpete’s Struggles

The North Sanpete Hawks, on the other hand, have had a challenging season, holding a 1-6 record with a win percentage of just 14.3%. The Hawks are winless in their region and have struggled both at home and on the road. Despite these struggles, there are standout performances worth highlighting.

#13 Ridge Hendry has been a bright spot for the Hawks, averaging an impressive 19 points per game while also contributing in assists (3.8) and steals (2.0). Forward #25 Hudson Smith dominates the boards, grabbing 11 rebounds per game, nearly double Delta’s leading rebounder. These individual efforts indicate potential for North Sanpete to turn games around, but consistency and team cohesion remain challenges.

Key Comparisons

Statistically, Delta has the upper hand across most categories:

• Scoring: Delta averages 55.6 points per game compared to North Sanpete’s 47.6.
• Defense: Delta’s defense allows only 42.8 points per game, while North Sanpete concedes 53.3.
• Teamwork: Delta’s 12.3 assists per game outshine North Sanpete’s 9.3, showing better ball movement.

However, North Sanpete has an edge in rebounding, pulling down 34.5 boards per game compared to Delta’s 30.8.

Head-to-Head and Common Opponents

This will be the first meeting of the season between these two teams, but a look at their performances against common opponents highlights Delta’s superiority. Delta is 1-1 against shared opponents, while North Sanpete is 0-2. This trend underscores Delta’s ability to compete effectively against familiar foes.

Players to Watch

• Delta: Bronco Bundy (#12) will look to continue his scoring streak, while Kobe Driggs (#23) is expected to anchor the defense and dominate the boards.
• North Sanpete: Ridge Hendry (#13) will aim to carry his team offensively and defensively, with Hudson Smith (#25) providing critical rebounding support.

Game Outlook

Delta is heavily favored in this matchup given their superior record, statistics, and recent form. North Sanpete will need a stellar performance from their stars and improved team dynamics to challenge the Rabbits.

Basketball fans can expect Delta to capitalize on their momentum and depth, but North Sanpete’s home crowd could serve as an X-factor. Regardless of the outcome, this game will offer a showcase of Utah high school basketball talent.

Upcoming Rematch

Both teams will face off again on January 24, 2025, at Delta, making today’s game an important tone-setter for their rivalry.

Prediction: Delta to win by a comfortable margin, barring a standout performance from North Sanpete’s Ridge Hendry.