The Weber varsity basketball team (Pleasant View, UT) will face Highland (Salt Lake City, UT) in a neutral non-conference game on Friday, December 27, at 5:30 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Utah High School Basketball
Who: Highland vs Weber
When: Friday, December 27, 2024
Time: 5:30. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Highland vs Weber
The Utah high school basketball scene is buzzing with competitive action, and two teams making waves are Highland and Weber. Both schools have displayed impressive performances this season, but their strengths and styles set them apart.
Season Overview: Records and Rankings
Highland Rams
- Rank: 10th in Utah, 4th in Class
- Record: 7-1
- Win Percentage: .875
- Points For (PF): 568
- Points Against (PA): 439
Highland’s dominance is clear, especially in non-league games, where they boast a perfect 7-0 record. Their balanced scoring and strong defense have propelled them to an impressive start. At home and neutral sites, they are undefeated, showcasing their ability to perform in familiar and unfamiliar environments.
Weber Warriors
- Rank: 47th in Utah, 11th in Class
- Record: 7-3
- Win Percentage: .700
- Points For (PF): 672
- Points Against (PA): 621
Weber has also had a strong season, with their three losses primarily coming in closely contested matches. Their home-court advantage is notable, as they are 4-1 in front of their fans. However, they’ve faced tougher challenges in away games, with a 3-2 record.
Team Dynamics and Statistics
Scoring Averages
Highland has an edge in scoring, averaging 71.0 points per game (PPG) compared to Weber’s 67.2 PPG. Notably, Weber has shown resilience in overtime situations, outscoring opponents in extended play. Highland, on the other hand, excels in consistent scoring across all four quarters.
Stat Comparisons
Highland’s well-rounded team is reflected in their overall stats:
- Points Per Game: 70.6 (Highland) vs. 28.0 (Weber)
- Rebounds Per Game: 32.3 (Highland) vs. 7.0 (Weber)
- Assists Per Game: 16.1 (Highland) vs. 7.0 (Weber)
- Steals Per Game: 12.1 (Highland) vs. 3.3 (Weber)
- Blocks Per Game: 6.9 (Highland) vs. 0.0 (Weber)
Highland’s ability to dominate the boards and protect the rim underscores their defensive prowess, while Weber relies on offensive bursts to stay competitive.
Key Players to Watch
Highland Rams
- Jack Anderton (#12): Team’s leading scorer with 15.9 PPG
- Soren Ries (#13): Anchor on the boards with 8.1 rebounds per game
- Isaiah Drisdom (#11): Playmaker and defensive specialist with 6.3 assists and 3.3 steals per game
Weber Warriors
- Ryder Howe (#2): Scoring machine averaging 24.0 PPG
- Brandon Crockett (#5): Dominant rebounder with 9.0 rebounds per game
- Ben Olpin (#3): Versatile contributor with 10.0 assists and 4.0 steals per game
Common Opponent Analysis
Both teams have faced Clearfield, Syracuse, Davis, and Fremont, with Highland achieving a better record (3-1) against these common opponents compared to Weber’s 1-0. Highland’s decisive wins against Clearfield (69-43) and Fremont (72-48) highlight their ability to dismantle teams, while Weber’s narrower victories suggest a grind-it-out approach.
Looking Ahead
As the season progresses, Highland and Weber are likely to meet, potentially in the playoffs. Highland’s balanced team play and defensive dominance could pose a challenge for Weber’s high-scoring stars. The contrast in styles makes this matchup one to watch, as it would pit Weber’s explosive offense against Highland’s all-around efficiency.
Whether it’s Highland continuing their streak of dominance or Weber pulling off an upset, Utah high school basketball fans are in for an exciting ride.
