The Harrisburg (AR) varsity basketball team will play a home playoff game against Rivercrest (Wilson, AR) today at 5:20 p.m.

Harrisburg vs Rivercrest Game Info:

What: Arkansas High School Basketball
Who: Harrisburg (AR) vs Rivercrest (AR)
When: Monday, February 17, 2025
Time: 5:20 p.m. ET
Where: Harrisburg High School
Live stream: Watch here

Game preview: Harrisburg vs Rivercrest

The Rivercrest and Harrisburg basketball teams are gearing up for an exciting playoff matchup. The two teams, both representing Arkansas, have had a competitive season with notable victories, tough losses, and intense head-to-head showdowns. Here’s a deep dive into both teams’ performance, their season statistics, and what to expect from their upcoming game.

Season Overview

Rivercrest (24-25) has an overall record of 13-8, including a 5-5 conference record. Their home court advantage has been significant with a 7-5 record, and they’ve posted a solid 6-2 mark on the road. Rivercrest has been able to score a total of 1,265 points, averaging 60.2 points per game. They’ve allowed 1,123 points, giving them a points-against average of 53.5.

Harrisburg (24-25), on the other hand, has a 15-11 record, with a 6-6 conference standing. They’ve had more success at home, with a 10-3 record, but struggled on the road, posting just a 4-7 record. Harrisburg has scored 1,490 points this season, averaging 57.3 points per game, while giving up 1,308 points, or 59.1 points per game.

Previous Matchups

The two teams have faced off twice this season, with each winning one game:

• January 7, 2025: Rivercrest dominated Harrisburg with a 70-39 victory. Rivercrest had an impressive first half, scoring 24 points in each of the first two quarters, which allowed them to secure an easy win.

• January 31, 2025: Harrisburg bounced back with a 53-44 win over Rivercrest. They came from behind in the second half, especially in the fourth quarter, where they outscored Rivercrest 16-8 to claim the win.

With a win each, this upcoming game promises to be a decisive matchup in their playoff race.

Statistical Breakdown

In terms of team averages, Rivercrest has the edge in scoring, averaging 60.2 points per game compared to Harrisburg’s 57.3. However, Harrisburg has slightly better rebounding, averaging 31.7 boards per game compared to Rivercrest’s 30.5.

Key players to watch include:

• Rivercrest: Axel Heeb, who leads his team with 16.0 points per game and 1.6 steals, is a key offensive weapon. Eastin Gray, with 6.2 rebounds per game, provides solid inside play.
• Harrisburg: The standout player for Harrisburg is Eastin Gray, who is also their leading rebounder, pulling down 6.2 per game. Jax Mross has been a key playmaker with 2.7 assists per game.

Both teams have shown their offensive strengths, but it’s their defense and the ability to capitalize on fast breaks that could decide the outcome in this crucial playoff game.

Common Opponents

Both teams have faced a similar schedule, with several common opponents. For instance, both teams secured wins against Hoxie, with Rivercrest winning 74-55 on December 10 and Harrisburg winning 55-43 on January 14. However, both teams struggled against teams like Newport and Manila, with Rivercrest losing to Newport on December 17 and Manila on December 20, while Harrisburg faced the same fate against Newport on January 17 and Manila on January 21.

What to Expect

The upcoming game promises high intensity, with both teams aiming to prove their strength in the postseason. Rivercrest, despite their early struggles in certain games, has shown resilience and the ability to explode offensively, especially when players like Heeb are at the forefront. Harrisburg, while struggling on the road, has been strong at home and can be dangerous when they get into a rhythm, especially with their tough defense and rebounding efforts.

Conclusion

As Rivercrest and Harrisburg prepare for their next matchup, it’s clear that both teams are evenly matched, with each squad boasting unique strengths. Rivercrest’s offensive firepower and Harrisburg’s rebounding dominance will be crucial in deciding the outcome. The next game promises to be a thrilling contest that could shape the postseason for both teams.

Fans of both teams are sure to be on the edge of their seats as they watch these two squads battle it out for playoff supremacy. Will Rivercrest avenge their recent loss, or will Harrisburg defend their home court? Only time will tell.