The GRACE Christian varsity basketball team (Raleigh, NC) will host Cary Christian (Cary, NC) for a Capital City Conference game on Friday, December 13, at 7:00 PM.

Here’s what you need to know Basketball:

What: North Carolina High School Basketball
Who: GRACE Christian vs Cary Christian
When: Friday, December 13, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Cary Christian vs. GRACE Christian: A Preview of the December 13 Matchup

As the 2024-2025 basketball season heats up, a highly anticipated conference showdown is set for Friday, December 13, at 7:00 PM, as Cary Christian (Cary, NC) travels to take on GRACE Christian (Raleigh, NC). This game promises to be an exciting battle, showcasing contrasting team dynamics and individual performances.

Cary Christian: The Undefeated Juggernaut

Cary Christian has been nothing short of dominant this season, entering the matchup with an undefeated 6-0 record. Their performance on both ends of the court has been stellar, as they lead the conference with an impressive win percentage of 1.000. On offense, Cary Christian averages 71.2 points per game, the highest in the matchup, bolstered by a strong first quarter (21.0 points per game). Their offensive depth is reflected in their balanced scoring, with Andrew Neal leading the way with 23.6 points per game, followed by Elijah Holmes and Mason Ashworth, who contribute significantly in various areas.

Defensively, Cary Christian has proven effective at limiting their opponents, allowing just 165 points over six games, an average of only 27.5 points per game. Their defensive effort includes solid steals (6.0 per game) and a tight rebounding game (12.4 rebounds per game). Cary Christian has managed to find success both at home and on the road, going 3-0 in both categories.

GRACE Christian: A Team Searching for Consistency

In contrast, GRACE Christian has had a more challenging start to the season, posting a 6-8 record. While their offensive output (59.6 points per game) is lower than Cary Christian’s, they are capable of explosive performances. GRACE Christian has struggled to find consistency, especially in the first half, where they average just 24.8 points between the first and second quarters. However, their scoring picks up in the second half, and they manage to keep games competitive through strong showings in the third and fourth quarters.

Michael Phillips II has been a standout for GRACE Christian, averaging 23.1 points per game and pulling down 8.3 rebounds per game, leading the team in both categories. His ability to impact the game on both ends of the court will be crucial in trying to match Cary Christian’s firepower. Additionally, Eli Nelson’s playmaking (3.5 assists per game) will be key in creating opportunities for his teammates to score.

Defensively, GRACE Christian has shown promise, averaging 7.1 steals and 2.1 blocks per game, but their overall defensive efficiency has been inconsistent. They will need to ramp up their defensive intensity if they hope to contain Cary Christian’s high-scoring offense.

Common Opponents: A Hint of What’s to Come

Both teams have faced some common opponents this season, with Cary Christian holding a perfect 2-0 record against teams such as Thales Academy Apex and Trinity of Durham and Chapel Hill. GRACE Christian, meanwhile, has been 2-1 in games against similar opponents. The teams will meet several times throughout the season, but the first contest on December 13 is an important early season test for both programs.

Statistical Comparison: Key Areas to Watch

• Offense: Cary Christian excels in scoring, averaging 71.2 points per game compared to GRACE Christian’s 59.6. Cary Christian’s ability to put up points quickly, especially in the first half, will challenge GRACE’s defense, which has struggled to stop high-powered offenses.
• Rebounds: GRACE Christian holds a significant advantage in rebounding, averaging 27.2 boards per game, more than double Cary Christian’s 12.4. This could give GRACE the edge in controlling the tempo of the game, especially on the offensive glass.
• Defense: Cary Christian’s defense has been much tighter this season, allowing only 165 points in six games, while GRACE Christian has allowed 797 points in 14 games. The ability of GRACE Christian to step up defensively will be a key factor in staying competitive in this matchup.
• Individual Matchups: Andrew Neal and Mason Ashworth lead Cary Christian in scoring and defense, while Michael Phillips II and Eli Nelson anchor the GRACE Christian offense. These players will likely be central to their teams’ strategies and could be game-changers on both ends of the floor.

Looking Ahead: January 23 Rematch

The two teams will face off again on January 23, 2025, at Cary Christian, offering another opportunity for both teams to make a statement in conference play. For now, however, all eyes will be on December 13, where the undefeated Cary Christian squad looks to extend its perfect record while GRACE Christian aims to rebound from its early struggles and make a statement in front of their home crowd.

In summary, while Cary Christian enters the game as the clear favorite, GRACE Christian’s rebounding strength and key players like Phillips and Nelson give them a fighting chance. It promises to be a thrilling conference matchup, with both teams hungry for victory as they head into the heart of the season.