The Grace Christian Academy (Franklin, TN) varsity basketball team will host Providence Christian Academy (Murfreesboro, TN) for a home conference game today at 7:30 p.m.
Game Details:
- Matchup: PCA vs. GCA
- Date & Time: Friday, Jan. 17, 2025, at 7:30 p.m.
- Location: Grace Christian Academy, Franklin, TN
- Live stream: Watch Here
Basketball Showdown: Providence Christian Academy vs. Grace Christian Academy
As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season continues to unfold, two teams from Tennessee, Providence Christian Academy (PCA) and Grace Christian Academy (GCA), are making waves in their respective districts. Both teams have strong rosters and impressive records, but how do they stack up against each other? Let’s dive into their stats, head-to-head results, and upcoming matchups.
Providence Christian Academy (PCA) – A Dominant Force
PCA has been nothing short of dominant this season. With an overall record of 15-1, they’ve shown their strength across various aspects of the game. Their district record is perfect, standing at 7-0, which is a testament to their consistency and competitive edge within the league. Their home court has been a fortress, with a 9-1 record, and they’ve proven their resilience on neutral grounds as well, remaining undefeated (3-0) in neutral site games.
On average, PCA puts up a staggering 69.9 points per game, led by #21 Preston Wade, who is an offensive juggernaut with an impressive 21.0 points per game. Wade also contributes significantly in other areas, averaging 14.0 rebounds per game and 9.0 blocks per game, making him one of the most well-rounded players in the state. The team also benefits from solid contributions from #24 Davis Joyner, who averages 8.0 assists per game.
Grace Christian Academy (GCA) – Competitive but Inconsistent
GCA, with an overall record of 8-7, has shown glimpses of brilliance but has been inconsistent throughout the season. They sit at 2-4 in district play, leaving them with room for improvement. Despite a rough patch in their away games (2-5), they have remained strong in neutral site games, winning both of their contests.
The team averages 63.9 points per game, with #24 Ford Deshazo leading the way with 15.0 points per game. Deshazo is also a standout in other statistical categories, pulling down 6.0 rebounds per game and blocking 2.3 shots per game. Alongside him, #10 Ty Gibbs has been a key contributor, averaging 3.3 assists and 1.8 steals per game.
Head-to-Head: PCA Dominates
The latest head-to-head matchup between the two teams took place on December 6, 2024, where PCA delivered a dominant performance, defeating GCA 77-46. PCA’s offensive firepower and defensive tenacity were on full display, as they overwhelmed GCA in all four quarters. This victory added to PCA’s unbeaten record against GCA in recent encounters.
In their last five meetings, PCA has been flawless, winning each of the contests by substantial margins. In contrast, GCA has struggled in their matchups against top teams like PCA and has yet to find a way to overcome the firepower that the Murfreesboro squad brings to the table.
Common Opponents: PCA Shows Stronger Performance
Looking at their performance against common opponents, PCA has a clean 6-0 record, while GCA sits at 2-3. PCA’s wins have been decisive, including a 69-50 victory over Battle Ground Academy, while GCA has struggled against similar competition, such as their loss to Battle Ground Academy (81-53) and a close loss to Columbia Academy (72-66).
In these matchups, PCA’s ability to execute on both ends of the floor has been a critical factor in their success. They’ve scored consistently, while their defense has stifled opposing offenses.
Statistical Comparison
Looking at key statistics, PCA has the edge in nearly every category:
- Points Per Game: PCA averages 69.9, while GCA puts up 63.9.
- Rebounds Per Game: PCA outrebounds GCA, with 27.2 per game compared to 24.0 for GCA.
- Assists Per Game: PCA also leads in assists with 14.2, while GCA has 12.4.
- Steals and Blocks: PCA’s defense is formidable, averaging 8.0 steals and 3.7 blocks per game, whereas GCA averages 6.0 steals and 3.7 blocks per game.
Key Players to Watch
- Preston Wade (PCA): With 21.0 points and 14.0 rebounds per game, Wade is a player to keep an eye on, especially as the season progresses. His ability to dominate both offensively and defensively makes him a game-changer.
- Ford Deshazo (GCA): Deshazo’s 15.0 points per game and solid all-around play make him the focal point of GCA’s offense. If GCA is to pull off an upset, Deshazo will need to lead by example.
The Road Ahead
Both teams have more games to play in the coming weeks. PCA will continue to ride high on their undefeated district record, while GCA will look to bounce back and find more consistency. Their upcoming games will be crucial in determining their seeding for the district playoffs.
- Upcoming for PCA: Their next games include matchups against Columbia Academy and Franklin Road Academy, teams they’ve already beaten this season.
- Upcoming for GCA: GCA will face Franklin Road Academy and Battle Ground Academy again, seeking redemption and a stronger performance.
Conclusion
As the season progresses, the gap between these two teams seems to be widening. PCA’s dominance, led by Preston Wade’s stellar performance, puts them in a strong position as they continue their march toward the postseason. Meanwhile, GCA’s ability to regroup and sharpen their game will be crucial if they hope to challenge the top-tier teams in their district.
One thing is certain: the rivalry between Providence Christian Academy and Grace Christian Academy is far from over, and the next few matchups promise to bring more exciting basketball action to the courts of Tennessee.
