The Garfield Heights (OH) varsity basketball team is set to host Maple Heights (OH) in a home conference game today at 5:45 PM.
Here’s what you need Basketball to know:
What: Ohio High School Basketball
Who: Garfield Heights vs Maple Heights
When: Friday, January 10, 2025
Time: 5:45. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here
Garfield Heights vs. Maple Heights: A Tale of Two Seasons
Tonight, the Maple Heights Mustangs (4-5) will face off against the Garfield Heights Bulldogs (8-0) in a highly anticipated conference game at Garfield Heights High School. The game, set to tip off at 5:45 p.m., pits two teams on contrasting paths this season. Let’s break down the stats, records, and key players ahead of this matchup.
Season Overview
Garfield Heights has been dominant this season, boasting an undefeated record (8-0) with a perfect 4-0 in conference play. The Bulldogs have consistently overwhelmed their opponents, averaging 73 points per game while holding teams to just 46 points on average—a testament to their disciplined defense and well-rounded offense.
On the other hand, Maple Heights has struggled to find consistency, sitting at 4-5 overall and winless in conference play (0-3). While their offense has shown flashes of brilliance, averaging 68.1 points per game, defensive lapses have cost them several close contests.
Key Team Stats
| Category | Maple Heights | Garfield Heights |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 60.9 | 73.0 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 22.0 | – |
| Assists Per Game | 13.4 | – |
| Steals Per Game | 9.8 | – |
| Blocks Per Game | 1.4 | – |
Maple Heights relies heavily on their playmaker #35 Davan Aniton, who leads the team in points (15.8), rebounds (5.6), and blocks (0.6) per game. Supporting him are Kaelon Hurt with 3.4 assists and Andre McCullough with 2.5 steals per game. For Garfield Heights, their balanced team approach, depth, and scoring efficiency have set them apart, though individual stats have not been highlighted.
Quarterly Scoring Averages
Maple Heights starts strong, averaging 15.7 points in the first quarter and increasing to 17.1 in the second, but they struggle to maintain momentum in later quarters. Garfield Heights maintains a consistent scoring pace, averaging 13 points in the first quarter and peaking at 16 points in the final two quarters, showcasing their ability to close out games effectively.
Head-to-Head Preview
This will be the first meeting between the two teams this season, with another scheduled for February 13 at Maple Heights. While Maple Heights has shown they can compete with strong opponents, Garfield Heights’ impeccable record and dominance against common opponents suggest they enter this game as clear favorites. For example, Garfield Heights dismantled Shaker Heights 86-45, whereas Maple Heights edged them out 65-54.
Common Opponent Analysis
Against shared opponents, Garfield Heights has excelled with a flawless 6-0 record, including significant victories over Cleveland Central Catholic and Warrensville Heights. Maple Heights, meanwhile, has struggled, going 1-4 in these matchups, with their lone victory coming against Shaker Heights.
Key Factors to Watch
- Defensive Adjustments by Maple Heights: If the Mustangs hope to pull off an upset, they’ll need to tighten their defense against Garfield Heights’ high-powered offense. Limiting second-chance points and forcing turnovers will be crucial.
- Davan Aniton’s Impact: Maple Heights will look to Aniton to lead the charge on both ends of the court. His ability to score, rebound, and block shots will be critical against a deep Garfield Heights roster.
- Garfield Heights’ Depth: The Bulldogs have consistently showcased their ability to distribute scoring across their lineup. Maintaining this balance will be key to wearing down the Mustangs.
- Game Pace: Maple Heights might aim to speed up the game to capitalize on their scoring ability, while Garfield Heights will likely focus on controlling the tempo and executing their plays methodically.
Prediction
While Maple Heights has the talent to compete, Garfield Heights’ dominance and composure in close games give them the edge. Expect the Bulldogs to defend their home court and extend their unbeaten streak.
Final Score Prediction: Garfield Heights 75, Maple Heights 63.
Tonight’s matchup will provide a clear picture of whether Maple Heights can rise to the challenge or if Garfield Heights will continue their path of perfection. Don’t miss the action!
