The Hiland (Berlin, OH) varsity basketball team will host Garaway (Sugarcreek, OH) for a home conference game today at 7:30 p.m.

Game Details:

• Teams: Garaway vs Hiland
• Date: Friday, January 24, 2025
• Time: 7:30 p.m.

A Clash of the Titans: Garaway vs. Hiland in Ohio Basketball

As the 2024-2025 basketball season progresses, fans are witnessing a thrilling battle between two of Ohio’s finest teams: Garaway and Hiland. These teams, both formidable in their respective leagues, are on a collision course to determine dominance in the state. With Garaway coming in with a 12-3 overall record and Hiland perfect at 11-0, the stage is set for an exciting rivalry game. Let’s break down what we can expect as these two teams face off once again.

Team Profiles and Records

Garaway enters this matchup with an impressive 12-3 overall record, showcasing their consistent performance throughout the season. Their conference record stands at 6-2, indicating that they have proven their worth within the league. Garaway’s offensive game has been solid, averaging 60.7 points per game while their defense has allowed 763 points in total, maintaining a solid win percentage of .800.

On the other hand, Hiland has been nothing short of dominant this season. With an undefeated record of 11-0, including a perfect 7-0 in the conference, they have shown little weakness. Their offense averages 58.5 points per game, and their defense has been equally impressive, holding opponents to just 405 points so far. Hiland’s flawless conference performance, coupled with their remarkable consistency, has made them a powerhouse in Ohio.

Head-to-Head: A Recent Showdown

The two teams faced each other on December 13, 2024, where Hiland defeated Garaway 60-40 in a one-sided conference game. The game saw a strong performance from Hiland, who dominated early with a 25-8 lead in the first quarter. Garaway tried to rally, but Hiland’s defense stifled their efforts, with Garaway only managing to score a total of 40 points. This victory gave Hiland the edge in the rivalry, and as the teams meet again, Garaway will be looking for redemption.

Common Opponents

Both Garaway and Hiland have had their fair share of tough matchups against common opponents this season. Here’s how the teams performed:

• West Holmes: Garaway won 81-46, while Hiland will face them on February 11, 2025.
• Claymont: Garaway secured a 56-43 win, while Hiland dominated 70-38 on January 3, 2025.
• Indian Valley: Garaway lost 57-40, while Hiland won 58-47 on December 10, 2024.
• Tuscarawas Valley: Garaway earned a close 64-56 victory, with Hiland beating Tuscarawas Valley 68-44 on December 17, 2024.
• Sandy Valley: Garaway triumphed 53-41, while Hiland easily beat Sandy Valley 61-28 on December 20, 2024.

Both teams have shown their ability to defeat tough opponents, but Hiland’s unblemished record against common foes stands out as they remain perfect thus far.

Key Statistical Breakdown

• Scoring: Garaway’s offense averages 60.7 points per game, with their highest output coming in the third quarter, averaging 17.5 points. Hiland, while slightly lower in total points (58.5 per game), has a balanced offensive game, with their highest average in the first quarter at 17.7 points.
• Defense: Both teams have played strong defense, with Garaway allowing 763 points and Hiland a significantly lower total of 405 points. The difference in defensive strength may be a crucial factor in the upcoming game.
• Home/Away Performance: Garaway’s record at home stands at 6-2, with their away record at 6-1, while Hiland has been perfect both at home and away with 6-0 and 5-0 records, respectively. The advantage might lean towards Hiland in this upcoming game, as they have shown resilience on the road.

Looking Ahead

The rivalry between Garaway and Hiland is one of Ohio’s most exciting basketball matchups. Garaway will need to improve on their previous meeting, focusing on better offensive execution and tighter defense to have a chance against Hiland. Meanwhile, Hiland will look to continue their perfect season, with their defense and balanced offense making them a tough opponent for anyone.

The next meeting between these two teams is set for January 24, 2025, in another thrilling chapter of this high-stakes rivalry. Fans can expect a fiercely contested game, as both teams have much to prove.

As the season progresses, both Garaway and Hiland will continue to strive for greatness, but only one will emerge victorious in this rivalry. The road to the conference title—and potentially further glory—runs through these two powerhouse teams, and the upcoming matchups will undoubtedly leave fans on the edge of their seats.