The Bishop O’Connell varsity basketball team (Arlington, VA) will host a conference game against Gonzaga (Washington, DC) on Friday, January 17, at 7:00 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Gonzaga vs Bishop O’Connell
When: Friday, January 17, 2025
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Gonzaga vs Bishop O’Connell
As the high school basketball season heats up, all eyes are on the upcoming conference clash between Gonzaga (Washington, DC) and Bishop O’Connell (Arlington, VA). Both teams are in prime form and have been delivering stellar performances this season, making their matchup on January 17 a must-watch event. Here’s a breakdown of the teams, their rankings, and what to expect in this high-stakes game.
Team Profiles and Rankings
Gonzaga Eagles
- Record: 14-2 overall, 3-0 in league play
- National Rank: 4
- DC Rank: 1
- Win Percentage: 87.5%
The Eagles boast an impressive offensive record, scoring an average of 76.1 points per game, with standout performances in the third quarter where they average 21.3 points. Darius Bivins leads the team in scoring, averaging 12.1 points per game, along with 3.8 assists and 2.5 steals. Gonzaga’s well-rounded defense and sharp offensive play have earned them dominant victories, including a notable 95-52 win over Our Lady of Good Counsel.
Bishop O’Connell Knights
- Record: 12-4 overall, 4-1 in league play
- National Rank: 18
- Virginia Rank: 4
- Win Percentage: 75%
The Knights are a force to be reckoned with on their home court, holding an unbeaten 5-1 record. While they average 63.8 points per game, their defensive prowess stands out, limiting opponents to an average of 772 points over 16 games. Key players like Liam Koelsch, who leads in blocks, and a balanced scoring lineup make Bishop O’Connell a formidable competitor.
Head-to-Head Matchup
The January 17 matchup at Bishop O’Connell will be the first meeting between these teams this season, with a rematch scheduled for February 14 at Gonzaga. While Gonzaga holds a slight statistical edge in scoring and assists, Bishop O’Connell’s home-court advantage and strong defensive record could tilt the scales.
Key Stats Comparison
| Metric | Gonzaga | Bishop O’Connell |
|---|---|---|
| Points Per Game | 76.1 | 63.8 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 31.3 | Not listed |
| Assists Per Game | 11.4 | Not listed |
| Steals Per Game | 9.9 | Not listed |
| Blocks Per Game | 2.9 | Not listed |
Recent Performances
Both teams have faced common opponents like Our Lady of Good Counsel and St. Mary’s Ryken, with Gonzaga emerging undefeated in such matchups and Bishop O’Connell recording a strong 4-1 record. Notable wins include Gonzaga’s 101-42 demolition of St. Mary’s Ryken and Bishop O’Connell’s narrow 57-52 victory over St. John’s.
What to Watch
- Scoring Depth: Gonzaga’s ability to put up big numbers across all quarters will be tested by Bishop O’Connell’s disciplined defense.
- Star Players: Can Darius Bivins continue his high-scoring and playmaking dominance? Will Liam Koelsch’s defensive presence make a difference for the Knights?
- Home-Court Edge: With a nearly perfect home record, Bishop O’Connell’s fan support could be a deciding factor.
Predictions
This highly anticipated game promises to be a nail-biter, with Gonzaga’s offensive firepower clashing against Bishop O’Connell’s resilience. The outcome could have significant implications for league standings and postseason seedings. Basketball fans won’t want to miss the action when the Eagles take on the Knights this Friday night at 7 PM.
