The varsity basketball team from St. Thomas Aquinas (Fort Lauderdale, FL) will host Hialeah Educational Academy (Hialeah, FL) in a non-conference home game on Monday, January 6, at 7:30 PM.
Hialeah Educational Academy vs St. Thomas Aquinas Basketball Game Info:
What: Florida Boys Varsity Basketball
Who: Hialeah Educational Academy vs St. Thomas Aquinas
When: Monday, January 5, 2025
Time: 7:30 PM
Live stream: Watch here
Game preview: Hialeah Educational Academy vs St. Thomas Aquinas
The 2024-25 Boys Varsity Basketball season has been an exhilarating ride for both Hialeah Educational Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas, two teams that have carved their paths with distinct styles and strengths. As we delve into their rankings, records, and standout players, the contrast between these squads highlights their unique approaches to the game.
Rankings & Records
Hialeah Educational Academy (9-4 Overall)
- Class Ranking (FL): 5
- Win Percentage: 69.2%
- Points Scored (PF): 793
- Points Allowed (PA): 771
St. Thomas Aquinas (12-1 Overall)
- National Ranking: 25
- Class Ranking (FL): 1
- Win Percentage: 92.3%
- Points Scored (PF): 913
- Points Allowed (PA): 668
St. Thomas Aquinas has demonstrated dominance this season with their stellar record and high-scoring offense. Conversely, Hialeah Educational Academy has held their own with a respectable record and competitive play, especially in neutral games (5-3).
Scoring Averages by Quarter
| Team | Q1 | Q2 | Q3 | Q4 | Final |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hialeah Educational Academy | 13.6 | 13.8 | 16.4 | 18.6 | 61.0 |
| St. Thomas Aquinas | 19.3 | 18.5 | 16.1 | 16.3 | 70.2 |
St. Thomas Aquinas sets the tone early, averaging an impressive 19.3 points in the first quarter. Hialeah Educational Academy’s stronger finishes in the fourth quarter show their resilience and ability to close games effectively.
Team Statistics Comparison
| Statistic | Hialeah Educational Academy | St. Thomas Aquinas |
| Points Per Game | 61.0 | 70.2 |
| Rebounds Per Game | 10.8 | 32.7 |
| Assists Per Game | 1.9 | 15.9 |
| Steals Per Game | 5.2 | 11.8 |
| Blocks Per Game | 0.9 | 3.2 |
St. Thomas Aquinas’ dominance is further reflected in their superior statistics across nearly all categories. Their ability to control the boards with 32.7 rebounds per game and facilitate play with 15.9 assists per game underscores their balanced team play.
Team Leaders
Hialeah Educational Academy
- Points Per Game: #2 Tony Guerrero – 16.1
- Rebounds Per Game: #1 Jayquan Freeman – 7.9
- Steals Per Game: #11 Zavine Bieger – 2.9
- Blocks Per Game: #1 Jayquan Freeman – 2.0
St. Thomas Aquinas
- Points Per Game: #4 Clarence Westbrook Jr. – 18.8
- Rebounds Per Game: #1 Zane Elliott – 7.8
- Assists Per Game: #2 Drake (DJ) Sandi – 7.2
- Steals Per Game: #2 Drake (DJ) Sandi – 3.9
- Blocks Per Game: #0 Dwayne Wimbley Jr. – 2.4
The standout players from both teams have been instrumental in their respective successes. Tony Guerrero’s scoring ability and Jayquan Freeman’s defensive presence shine for Hialeah Educational Academy. Meanwhile, St. Thomas Aquinas’ Clarence Westbrook Jr. and Drake (DJ) Sandi have been pivotal in leading their team both offensively and defensively.
Season Breakdown
| Category | Hialeah Educational Academy | St. Thomas Aquinas |
| Overall Record | 9-4 | 12-1 |
| In-State Record | 7-2 | 8-0 |
| Out-of-State Record | 2-2 | 4-1 |
| Home Record | 0-0 | 2-0 |
| Away Record | 4-1 | 2-0 |
| Neutral Record | 5-3 | 8-1 |
While Hialeah Educational Academy has not played any home games, they have performed admirably on the road and in neutral settings. St. Thomas Aquinas’ nearly flawless record showcases their ability to adapt and excel regardless of the venue.
Conclusion
Both teams have shown tremendous skill and determination this season, but St. Thomas Aquinas has emerged as a powerhouse, excelling in team dynamics, individual performances, and consistent victories. Hialeah Educational Academy, however, remains a formidable opponent, showcasing grit and resilience that makes them a team to watch.
As the season progresses, fans can look forward to thrilling matchups and unforgettable performances from these two exceptional squads.
