The Gilbert (IA) varsity basketball team will play a home conference game against Ballard (Huxley, IA) on Friday, January 3 at 7:30 p.m.
Gilbert vs Ballard Game Info:
What: Iowa High School Basketball
Who: Gilbert (IA) vs Ballard (IA)
When: Friday, January 3, 2025
Time: 7:30 p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Gilbert vs Ballard
On January 3rd, 2025, basketball fans will be treated to an exciting intra-conference showdown as the Ballard Bombers travel to Gilbert to take on the Tigers in a game that promises to be a thrilling contest. Both teams have been performing exceptionally well this season, with undefeated records and a fierce rivalry building between the two schools.
Team Overview
Ballard (24-25)
The Ballard Bombers have been unstoppable this season, boasting a perfect 6-0 overall record and an equally impressive 5-0 conference record. They are dominating on both ends of the court, averaging an outstanding 65.8 points per game while holding their opponents to just 47.7 points. With a solid home and away record, Ballard has looked nearly invincible as they head into their road game at Gilbert.
Gilbert (24-25)
Gilbert, with a 6-1 overall record, has also been impressive, showcasing their offensive firepower with an average of 64.9 points per game. Their defense has been formidable, allowing 52 points per game. Gilbert’s perfect 4-0 record in conference play speaks volumes about their dominance in the league, and they are eager to make a statement in front of their home crowd against the high-flying Ballard team.
Game Preview: Head-to-Head Matchup
The upcoming game between these two teams will be a clash of titans in the Iowa Class 3A basketball world. Ballard’s perfect conference record will be put to the test as they face the Tigers in Gilbert on Friday, January 3rd, at 7:30 PM. Ballard has been dominant against their common opponents this season, boasting a 5-0 record against teams that both schools have faced. Gilbert is not far behind with a 4-0 record against the same opponents, highlighting the tight competition between these two programs.
Both teams have already shown impressive wins against high-caliber opponents. Ballard has defeated schools like Boone, North Polk, and Carlisle, while Gilbert has claimed victories over Boone, Carlisle, and Winterset, among others.
Key Matchup Factors
Offensive Firepower:
The game will feature two high-scoring teams. Ballard’s offense, led by their dynamic players, has been nearly unstoppable, while Gilbert has managed to stay close in scoring with their own offensive stars. The team that can maintain its rhythm on the offensive end, particularly in fast-break opportunities, will likely have the advantage.
Defense and Rebounding:
Both teams have been solid defensively, with Ballard allowing an average of just 47.7 points per game and Gilbert limiting their opponents to 52 points. Rebounding will play a critical role in the game, as both teams are capable of turning defensive stops into fast-break points.
Depth and Rotation:
Ballard has managed to rotate its bench effectively, which has helped them maintain their intensity throughout games. Gilbert, while deep in talent, will need to match Ballard’s stamina if they want to keep up in a high-paced environment.
Looking Ahead: Future Games
After this highly anticipated matchup, Gilbert will travel to Ballard on February 4th for the second meeting of the season, which promises to be just as thrilling as this one. Both teams will look to build on their successful seasons and continue their dominance in the league.
Conclusion
With both teams unbeaten in conference play and boasting high-scoring offenses and stout defenses, the January 3rd matchup between Ballard and Gilbert is poised to be one of the most exciting games of the 2024-25 Iowa high school basketball season. Fans can expect an intense battle that will showcase the skill, determination, and passion of these two outstanding teams.
