The La Salle varsity basketball team (Union Gap, WA) will host Highland (Cowiche, WA) in a home conference game today at 7 p.m.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Washington High School Basketball
Who: Highland vs La Salle
When: Friday, December 20, 2024
Time: 7:00. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Highland vs La Salle
As the 2024-2025 high school basketball season unfolds, fans are gearing up for a key matchup between the Highland Scots and La Salle Lightning. The teams will face off tonight at 7 p.m. in Union Gap, WA. Here’s a breakdown of their season performance so far and what to expect from this conference clash.
Team Performance Overview
Highland Scots (1-4 Overall, 0-0 League)
The Highland Scots are in the early stages of what has been a challenging season. With a 1-4 record, they’ve struggled to find consistency on both ends of the court. Their lone win came at home, as their away performance (0-2) has been less than stellar. Averaging 30.2 points per game, the Scots’ offensive production lags behind most competitors. Defensively, they’ve allowed 266 points across five games, a significant hurdle to overcome.
La Salle Lightning (3-3 Overall, 0-0 League)
The La Salle Lightning, on the other hand, have shown flashes of brilliance, especially at home, where they remain undefeated (3-0). Their overall record sits at an even 3-3, bolstered by a high-powered offense averaging an impressive 76.7 points per game. However, the Lightning have struggled on the road, going 0-3. Their defense has been slightly more stable than Highland’s, allowing 440 points through six games.
Head-to-Head Matchup
Tonight marks the first meeting between these two teams this season, giving each an opportunity to establish dominance. While La Salle’s potent offense seems poised to overwhelm Highland, the Scots will look to exploit any defensive lapses from the Lightning.
Common Opponents
Both teams have faced Granger this season, with contrasting results:
- Highland: Lost to Granger 66-39 on December 18.
- La Salle: Yet to play Granger (scheduled for January 4).
La Salle’s victory over Riverside Christian (92-63) on November 30 also highlights their capability to deliver decisive wins against shared competitors, a feat Highland has yet to replicate.
Key Factors to Watch
- Scoring Efficiency
Highland must find a way to improve their offensive output. Their average of 30.2 points per game is a stark contrast to La Salle’s 76.7. Limiting turnovers and capitalizing on high-percentage shots will be critical for the Scots to keep pace. - Home Court Advantage
La Salle’s perfect home record makes them a formidable opponent in Union Gap. Highland will need to adjust quickly to the hostile environment. - Defensive Adjustments
La Salle’s defense has allowed 440 points over six games, suggesting vulnerabilities that Highland could exploit if they step up their offensive aggression.
Upcoming Schedule
Both teams are set to face several common opponents in the coming weeks, including Goldendale, White Swan, and Kittitas. These games will provide further clarity on their respective trajectories as they seek to improve their standings.
- Next Meeting: Highland will host La Salle on January 17 in Cowiche, WA, for a non-conference rematch.
Prediction
Given their explosive offense and undefeated home record, La Salle enters this game as the clear favorite. However, if Highland can slow the pace and force La Salle into defensive lapses, they could keep the game competitive. Tonight’s matchup will test both teams’ resolve and set the tone for the rest of their seasons.
Tip-off is at 7 p.m.—don’t miss it!
