The Harding (Warren, OH) varsity basketball team will be hosting Boardman (Youngstown, OH) for a home conference game today at 7 PM.
Game Details:
- Matchup: Boardman @ Harding
- Date & Time: Friday, Jan. 31, 2025 @ 7 PM
- Live stream: Watch Here
- Live stream: Watch Here
Rivalry Reignited: Boardman vs Harding Basketball Showdown
The hardwood rivalry between the Boardman and Harding basketball teams has long been a spectacle for basketball fans in Ohio, and this season’s matchups have lived up to the hype. Both teams have seen success in the 2024-2025 season, with Boardman sporting a 9-5 record and Harding sitting pretty at 13-3. However, despite their strong performances, the two teams are heading in different directions as they continue their respective campaigns.
Record Overview: Boardman vs Harding
Boardman (9-5 overall; 2-2 conference) The Boardman Spartans have had an up-and-down season so far, with a .643 win percentage overall. They’ve managed to secure a solid 5-3 record at home and are 3-2 on the road, demonstrating their competitiveness in various environments. However, their recent struggles in conference play (2-2) have highlighted some inconsistencies, especially as they try to gain ground in the competitive Ohio Division.
Harding (13-3 overall; 5-0 conference) On the other hand, Harding’s season has been nothing short of dominant. The team has an impressive .812 win percentage and has been flawless in conference play, with a perfect 5-0 record. Their road performances (5-2) and neutral game record (2-0) also suggest that they are a versatile and formidable team. Harding’s performance this season makes them a serious contender, especially after their commanding victory over Boardman earlier this month.
Head-to-Head: A Lopsided Affair
The most recent meeting between these two rivals occurred on January 14, 2025, when Harding defeated Boardman 79-45 in a one-sided affair. This victory underscored Harding’s dominance in the rivalry, and the team will look to carry that momentum into future games, especially as they prepare for another home contest against Boardman on February 4, 2025.
The Spartans have a chance to rebound, but with Harding’s consistent performances, it will take a full team effort to change the outcome in their favor.
Key Players: A Clash of Stars
Boardman’s Chaz Coleman has been a standout player, leading the team in multiple categories including points (20.0 PPG), rebounds (10.0 RPG), assists (3.0 APG), steals (1.9 SPG), and blocks (1.1 BPG). Coleman’s all-around game has been a bright spot for the Spartans, but for Boardman to succeed, other players will need to step up in support.
For Harding, their collective effort has been key to their success. While no individual players stand out as much as Coleman, the team has found balance and depth in scoring, rebounding, and defense. The team’s overall chemistry has allowed them to perform well both offensively and defensively, particularly in their recent wins.
Team Stats Comparison
When comparing team statistics, Boardman slightly edges out Harding in points per game (67.4 vs. 66.9). However, Harding has been more efficient defensively, allowing just 819 points compared to Boardman’s 845. The rebounding numbers are nearly identical, with Boardman averaging 33.1 rebounds per game and Harding at 33.2.
One area where Harding outshines Boardman is in their ability to execute on the road. Harding’s 6-1 away record far surpasses Boardman’s 3-2, suggesting that they thrive in hostile environments, which will be important when they face off again on February 4.
Common Opponents
Both teams have had strong showings against common opponents. Boardman is 4-1 against common opponents, while Harding holds a 5-1 record. Notable victories for both include wins over East and Howland, while both teams faced off against Canfield with varying results. Boardman fell to Canfield 55-49, but Harding managed to edge them out 54-49.
Upcoming Matchup
As both teams gear up for the next meeting, the stakes couldn’t be higher. Harding has shown themselves to be the dominant force in the rivalry so far this season, but with Boardman’s talent, especially with Chaz Coleman leading the way, the Spartans will be eager to prove that they are capable of stealing a win on the road.
The game on February 4, 2025, is sure to be another exciting chapter in this rivalry. If Boardman can improve their performance on the defensive end and get more contributions from their supporting cast, they may just be able to turn the tables. However, Harding’s balanced team approach and exceptional home record make them the favorites heading into the contest.
As always, the intensity and drama of Boardman vs Harding are unmatched. Don’t miss the action on the court—this rivalry is only heating up!