The Richland (WA) varsity basketball team is hosting a conference game against Hermiston (WA) today at 5 p.m.

Here’s what you need to know:

What: Washington High School Basketball
Who: Hermiston vs Richland
When: Saturday, January 11, 2025
Time: 5:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here

Game Preview: Hermiston vs Richland

As the high school basketball season rolls on, the Hermiston and Richland teams are gearing up for an exciting match-up in the Washington State league. Both teams have had impressive seasons thus far, but with different trajectories, their upcoming game promises to be a key moment for both squads.

Team Overview

Hermiston Bulldogs (24-25)
The Hermiston Bulldogs come into this game with an overall record of 7-5, a solid performance considering the challenges they have faced this season. Their district record stands at 4-3, showing competitiveness within the league. They have a home record of 5-1 but have struggled on the road with a 2-4 record. The Bulldogs have scored a total of 713 points while allowing 725, with an average scoring margin of -12.

The team’s scoring is relatively balanced throughout the game, averaging 16.4 points in the first quarter, 12.1 in the second, 14.8 in the third, and 18.3 in the fourth, for a final average of 59.4 points per game. Their most notable wins have been against teams like Hanford and Walla Walla, but they’ve faced losses to top teams like Chiawana and Kamiakin.

Richland Bombers (24-25)
Richland has been a dominant force this season, boasting a perfect record of 10-0, including an impressive 7-0 district record. The Bombers have been perfect on both home and away games, with 4-0 and 5-0 records respectively. They have scored a total of 874 points and allowed just 580, giving them an average point differential of +294. Their scoring has been high across all quarters, with 22.8 points in the first, 22.9 in the second, 23.0 in the third, and 19.3 in the fourth, culminating in an average of 87.4 points per game.

Richland’s dominance is highlighted in their head-to-head results with common opponents, where they hold a perfect 7-0 record, whereas Hermiston is 4-3 against the same teams. This discrepancy shows the Bombers’ ability to outperform similar opponents.

Head-to-Head Matchup

The two teams will meet in a highly anticipated game today at 5 p.m. at Richland’s home court, followed by a return game at Hermiston on February 11 at 7:30 p.m. The first game will be critical for both teams, as a win for Hermiston would give them a chance to close the gap in their district standings. However, Richland enters as the heavy favorite, having been undefeated thus far and dominating their opponents with ease.

Common Opponents

Both Hermiston and Richland have faced several common opponents this season, and their records tell a compelling story of the teams’ relative strength. Hermiston has won against Pasco, Hanford, Walla Walla, and Southridge, while suffering losses to Chiawana, Kamiakin, and Kennewick. On the other hand, Richland has handled all their common opponents with ease, including impressive wins over Pasco (87-42), Chiawana (89-71), and Southridge (90-45).

The matchup against these common foes will provide insight into how Hermiston’s performance compares to Richland’s, and it’s clear that Richland has been far more consistent and dominant in these encounters.

Key Players and Factors

• Hermiston’s Key Players: While the Bulldogs have had standout performances from individual players, their success largely depends on maintaining a balanced attack and keeping the game close in the first half. Players like their top scorers and playmakers will need to step up to compete against a potent Richland offense.
• Richland’s Key Players: Richland’s undefeated streak is attributed to a well-rounded team effort with contributions from both offensive and defensive players. Their ability to score prolifically in every quarter will test Hermiston’s defensive capabilities, and if they can maintain their scoring efficiency, they will likely continue their unbeaten run.

Final Thoughts

The upcoming games between Hermiston and Richland are set to showcase the contrast in team performances. Hermiston will have to find a way to disrupt Richland’s offensive flow and capitalize on any mistakes, while Richland will aim to continue their flawless season and solidify their place as a top contender. Fans can expect an action-packed and competitive game, with the outcome likely shaping the remainder of the season for both teams.

The Hermiston vs. Richland rivalry game will be one to watch as these two teams, with differing records but similar aspirations, collide in the heart of Washington high school basketball.