As the Maine high school basketball playoffs heat up, all eyes are on the upcoming neutral-site matchup between the Mattanawcook Lynx (18-2) and the Dexter Tigers (15-5). The two teams, familiar foes from Class 2 and Class 3 respectively, have already faced off twice this season, with Mattanawcook emerging victorious both times. Now, with a playoff spot on the line, Dexter looks to flip the script and pull off an upset.

Season at a Glance

Mattanawcook has been dominant all season, boasting an impressive 18-2 overall record with a .900 win percentage. Their regional record of 17-2 further solidifies their status as a powerhouse. The Lynx have also demonstrated offensive and defensive strength, outscoring opponents 1,339 to 672 over the season. Their ability to put up an average of 67 points per game while allowing just over 33 makes them a formidable force.

Dexter, meanwhile, has put together a strong 15-5 season with a .750 win percentage. They hold a solid 12-4 record in regional play and have managed to outscore opponents 825 to 605. However, their offensive production of 41.3 points per game lags behind Mattanawcook’s, which could be a key factor in the upcoming matchup.

Head-to-Head Results

Mattanawcook has already proven they have Dexter’s number this season, winning both previous matchups convincingly:

• December 28, 2024: Mattanawcook defeated Dexter 36-21 in an away game.
• January 23, 2025: Mattanawcook dominated again with a 57-29 victory at home.

In both games, the Lynx controlled the pace, limiting Dexter’s offensive opportunities while capitalizing on their own.

Common Opponents Comparison

Both teams have faced a similar slate of opponents, with Mattanawcook holding a 9-2 record and Dexter slightly behind at 8-2. Notable results include:

• Penobscot Valley: Both teams struggled against this strong opponent, with Mattanawcook losing twice (46-30, 46-36) and Dexter also falling twice (65-21, 62-32).
• Orono: Mattanawcook swept Orono with dominant wins (74-34, 67-42), while Dexter also took care of business (42-12, 40-16).
• George Stevens Academy: The Lynx crushed them twice (68-41, 87-38), while Dexter also secured victories (36-20, 45-28).

Keys to the Game

For Mattanawcook:

1. Continue Defensive Dominance – The Lynx have held Dexter to just 25 points per game in their two previous meetings. Replicating that defensive effort will be crucial.
2. Fast Start – If Mattanawcook jumps out to an early lead, Dexter could struggle to keep up offensively.
3. Balanced Scoring – With a deep roster and multiple scoring threats, the Lynx need to distribute the ball effectively.

For Dexter:

1. Offensive Efficiency – The Tigers have to find a way to break through Mattanawcook’s stifling defense and improve on their season average of 41.3 points per game.
2. Limit Turnovers – Giving the ball away to a high-powered team like Mattanawcook is a recipe for disaster.
3. Defensive Adjustments – Allowing 57 points in their last matchup was too much; tightening up defensively is a must.

Prediction

Mattanawcook enters this game as the clear favorite, given their previous wins over Dexter and their dominant season overall. Dexter will need to play a near-perfect game to have a chance at an upset. If the Lynx maintain their defensive intensity and offensive efficiency, they should advance further in the playoffs.

Final Prediction: Mattanawcook 58, Dexter 35.

Will Dexter defy the odds, or will Mattanawcook continue their winning streak? Tip-off is at 2 PM, and fans won’t want to miss this showdown!