The 2024-2025 Utah high school basketball season is heating up, and two standout teams are making their mark: Hillcrest and East. With impressive records, strong performances, and notable leaders, these teams are shaping up to be major contenders. Let’s break down their season so far, highlight their key players, and examine how they stack up against each other.

Hillcrest: A Strong Start to the Season

Hillcrest has been on fire this season, with a record of 6-1, including a perfect 1-0 in league play. The team has dominated in several areas, especially when it comes to scoring, averaging an impressive 61.3 points per game. Hillcrest has also been strong on defense, holding opponents to just 311 points across the season. They’ve excelled both at home and on the road, with a 4-0 home record and a 2-1 record away from home.

One standout for Hillcrest is Myles Mahler, who leads the team with 14.4 points per game. His consistent scoring has been key to the team’s offensive success. Alongside Mahler, Anton Mahler has been a force on the boards, pulling down 5.0 rebounds per game. Ezra Bell is contributing with 3.7 assists per game, helping to facilitate Hillcrest’s fast-paced offense.

Hillcrest’s ability to perform in close games has been highlighted in their recent victories, including wins over Kearns (50-33) and Mountain Ridge (50-45). Their upcoming schedule looks challenging, with games against high-caliber teams like Olympus and Highland, but Hillcrest is poised for continued success if they can maintain their current form.

East: Consistency and Determination

East, while not as dominant as Hillcrest, has been impressive in its own right, with a 4-2 overall record. The team has shown resilience, particularly in close matchups, such as their thrilling 62-60 win over Jordan. East’s offense has been slightly more subdued compared to Hillcrest, averaging 56.2 points per game, but their defense has been solid, giving up 345 points so far.

Logan Lunt has been East’s offensive leader, scoring 13.0 points per game. He is also a key contributor on the boards, grabbing 6.0 rebounds per game. Jett Rimando has been effective in distributing the ball, averaging 2.4 assists per game, while Jace Schneider leads the team in steals, with 2.6 per game. The team’s overall performance has been consistent, but East will need to find ways to boost their offense to keep up with high-scoring teams like Hillcrest.

East has had a good showing against common opponents, such as their victories over Summit Academy (64-49) and Jordan (62-60). They have a challenging slate ahead, with games against teams like Mountain Ridge and Highland that will test their mettle.

Comparing the Teams: Head-to-Head and Stat Breakdown

Looking at the head-to-head comparison, Hillcrest holds a slight edge in several key categories. Hillcrest averages more points per game (61.3 vs. 56.2) and has been more effective at assisting (14.7 assists per game compared to East’s 6.6). Both teams are tied in rebounds, with Hillcrest averaging 27.3 rebounds per game and East slightly ahead at 27.8. However, East has been the better team at stealing the ball, with 7.8 steals per game compared to Hillcrest’s 12.1.

In terms of record breakdown, Hillcrest leads with a 6-1 overall record, while East sits at 4-2. Both teams are undefeated in their non-league matchups (Hillcrest at 5-1, East at 4-2). Their common opponents show a similar pattern, with Hillcrest holding a 3-0 record and East going 2-0 against teams they have both faced.

Looking Ahead: The Road to the Playoffs

Both teams have tough competition ahead, and their records suggest they could meet again later in the season, perhaps with playoff implications on the line. Hillcrest’s scoring power and balanced team play make them a formidable opponent, but East’s resilience and defensive strength give them a fighting chance.

As the season progresses, expect these two teams to continue making waves in Utah high school basketball. With key games against each other and other top-tier teams in the state, the rivalry between Hillcrest and East is shaping up to be one to watch.

Key Upcoming Games

• Hillcrest vs. Olympus – Dec. 27, 2024
• East vs. Kearns – Dec. 20, 2024
• Hillcrest vs. Highland – Dec. 31, 2024
• East vs. Mountain Ridge – Dec. 18, 2024

Conclusion

As we near the midway point of the season, Hillcrest and East are both shaping up to be major forces in Utah high school basketball. Hillcrest’s high-powered offense and East’s balanced approach make them teams to watch in the coming months. Whether it’s the thrilling plays of Myles Mahler or the scrappy defense of Logan Lunt, basketball fans can expect some exciting matchups ahead.