As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season continues, the contrasting fortunes of the Metlakatla and Haines varsity basketball teams have been clear. The teams have faced off already this season, with Metlakatla showing a dominant performance in their recent 49-33 victory over Haines on December 28, 2024.

Team Records and Performance

Metlakatla’s overall record stands at an impressive 5-1, with a perfect 2-0 in conference play, 2-0 at home, and a 2-1 record in neutral-site games. This brings them to a win percentage of .833, a testament to their consistency and strong performance across the board. Their scoring has been led by an average of 51.4 points per game in the fourth quarter, an indication of their ability to finish games strong.

In comparison, Haines has struggled this season, with an overall record of 0-3. They are still seeking their first win, with all three losses coming in neutral-site games. Despite showing improvement, particularly with a final scoring average of 25.7 points per game, Haines has struggled to find their footing, especially in the second half, where they average just 19.5 points in the fourth quarter.

Head-to-Head Results

Metlakatla extended their head-to-head advantage over Haines when they defeated them 49-33 in their last meeting on December 28. The game was a display of Metlakatla’s offensive prowess, as they dominated the final quarter to secure a comfortable win. Haines fought hard but was unable to make a comeback, especially after being held scoreless in the first three quarters.

Looking ahead, the teams are set to meet again in a conference game on January 11, 2025, at Haines. This matchup will be a key opportunity for Haines to try and turn their season around, while Metlakatla will look to maintain their unbeaten conference record.

Common Opponents and Future Matchups

Both teams will continue to face similar opponents in the coming weeks. Metlakatla has shown strong form against common opponents, holding a 3-0 record. In contrast, Haines has yet to face some of these same teams, with their next scheduled matchup against Wrangell on January 17, 2025.

Metlakatla’s performance against Wrangell has been stellar, winning all four matchups, including dominant victories like their 64-22 win on December 20, 2024, and 59-39 win on January 4, 2025. Haines will be hoping to reverse their fortunes when they face Wrangell and others like Petersburg and Craig later in the season.

Looking Ahead

The contrast in records is stark: Metlakatla holds a firm lead in their conference and continues to be a force to reckon with, while Haines searches for answers after a tough start to the season. As both teams face a string of common and conference opponents, each will look to make adjustments and push for better results.

For Metlakatla, maintaining their perfect conference record and deepening their offensive consistency will be the key to keeping momentum. Meanwhile, Haines will need to find a way to close out games and capitalize on their scoring chances if they are to turn their season around.

The next few weeks promise to be exciting, with both teams having important games ahead. Fans from both sides will be eagerly watching as these teams look to assert themselves in the season’s ongoing competition.