The Union High School varsity basketball team (Roosevelt, UT) will host a non-conference game against Grand County High School (Moab, UT) today at 6 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Grand County vs Union
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 6:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Grand County vs Union
Utah high school basketball showcases diverse team performances, and this season highlights distinct contrasts between Grand County High School and Union High School. Both teams have faced unique challenges and achieved noteworthy milestones, demonstrating the spirit of competition in the 2024-2025 season.
Team Overview
Grand County Red Devils
- Record: 2-8
- Home Record: 1-4
- Away Record: 1-3
- Neutral Record: 0-1
- Win Percentage: .200
The Red Devils have struggled to find consistent success, recording just two wins in their first ten games. Despite setbacks, the team shows promise in individual performances and competitive games against tough opponents.
Union Cougars
- Record: 6-2
- Home Record: 2-0
- Away Record: 2-1
- Neutral Record: 2-1
- Win Percentage: .750
The Cougars have emerged as a formidable force, boasting a strong 6-2 record. Their consistency both at home and on the road highlights their ability to adapt and succeed across different environments.
Scoring and Statistics
Grand County averages 54.4 points per game, slightly trailing Union’s 60.4 points per game. Notably, Union’s scoring peaks in the second quarter, where they average 17.8 points. On the other hand, Grand County’s scoring improves as the game progresses, with a third-quarter average of 15.1 points.
Player Highlights
Grand County
- Trace York (#33):
- Points Per Game: 16.7
- Rebounds Per Game: 8.5
- Steals Per Game: 2.5
Trace York has been the standout player for Grand County, leading in multiple categories. His versatility on offense and defense makes him a pivotal player for the Red Devils.
- Tatym Bisco (#20):
- Assists Per Game: 3.6
Bisco’s playmaking abilities set the tone for Grand County’s offense, contributing significantly to their scoring opportunities.
Union
- Wayke Olsen (#2):
- Points Per Game: 15.8
- Steals Per Game: 2.0
Olsen has been instrumental for Union, consistently delivering on both ends of the court.
- Jaxon Adamson (#34):
- Rebounds Per Game: 8.8
- Blocks Per Game: 1.3
Adamson anchors the team’s defense, dominating the boards and protecting the rim effectively.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced several shared opponents, but their records differ dramatically. Union holds a strong 4-1 record against common opponents, while Grand County has struggled at 0-4. For example:
- Vs. Manti:
- Grand County lost 67-49, while Union secured an 82-72 win.
- Vs. Carbon:
- Grand County lost 74-54, but Union triumphed 58-49.
These outcomes illustrate Union’s superior performance in similar matchups, reflecting their stronger overall season.
Strengths and Weaknesses
Grand County Strengths:
- Strong individual performances from Trace York.
- Consistent improvement throughout games.
Grand County Weaknesses:
- Defensive struggles, as reflected by their higher points allowed (578).
- Difficulty converting opportunities into wins.
Union Strengths:
- Balanced scoring and solid defense, with only 414 points allowed.
- Clutch performances in critical moments, such as their narrow win over Emery (42-40).
Union Weaknesses:
- Lower rebounding average (21.2) compared to Grand County (33.7).
- Fourth-quarter scoring dips, averaging just 11.3 points.
Conclusion
The 2024-25 Utah high school basketball season has highlighted contrasting paths for Grand County and Union. While the Red Devils face an uphill battle to improve their record, Union’s solid start positions them as a competitive force in their class. With standout players on both sides, fans can look forward to exciting games and individual brilliance as the season progresses.
