The Holy Cross (Dunmore, PA) varsity basketball team will host a home conference game against Lakeland (Jermyn, PA) on Thursday, January 9 at 6:15 PM.

Here’s what you need Basketball to know:

What: Pennsylvania High School Basketball
Who: Holy Cross vs Lakeland
When: Thursday, January 9, 2025
Time: 6:15. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch Here

Lakeland vs. Holy Cross: A Rivalry Renewed in PA Basketball

The upcoming basketball clash between Lakeland and Holy Cross promises to be an exciting showdown, with both teams bringing contrasting records into the game. Lakeland, based in Jermyn, PA, and Holy Cross, from Dunmore, PA, are set to face off in a crucial conference matchup on Thursday, January 9, 2025, at 6:15 PM. This game is the first in a series of two games between the two teams, with the second scheduled for February 4, 2025, at Lakeland.

Team Overview

Lakeland enters this season with a record of 4-7 overall and a tough 0-3 conference record. Their struggle has been evident as they continue to face tough opposition, showing a 2-2 record at home and a 1-4 record away. Their offense has been averaging just 46.5 points per game, a number they’ll need to improve on if they’re going to challenge Holy Cross in this game.

On the other hand, Holy Cross has been enjoying an impressive season with a 9-2 overall record, including a perfect 3-0 mark in conference play. Their home-court dominance has been evident, posting a 3-0 record in front of their home crowd, while they also have a solid 3-2 record in away games. Their scoring, averaging 65 points per game, has been significantly more potent than Lakeland’s, and they’ll look to continue their winning ways in this highly anticipated matchup.

Head-to-Head Comparison

Both teams have faced similar opponents this season, but Holy Cross has shown superior results, with a perfect 5-0 record against common opponents, while Lakeland holds a 1-4 record in these contests. This stark contrast highlights the different levels of success each team has had so far, with Holy Cross coming into this game with momentum and confidence.

Lakeland’s recent losses, including defeats against Mid Valley, Honesdale, and Old Forge, have shown that they’re still finding their rhythm. Their best scorer, Chase Rosenkrans, averages 13.3 points per game, but they’ll need more support from players like David Naniewicz (5.0 rebounds per game) and Noah Kutchmanich (2.4 assists per game) to turn things around.

For Holy Cross, they have several key contributors, with their top scorer being the versatile player who leads the team in points per game and overall performance. Their defense has also been strong, allowing only 592 points in 11 games, compared to Lakeland’s 527 points in 11 games.

The Matchup Breakdown

The game will feature several intriguing individual battles. For Lakeland, Rosenkrans, who leads the team with 13.3 points per game, will need to step up his game even more to keep pace with Holy Cross’ high-scoring offense. Defensively, the team has shown struggles, as evident in their recent 62-40 loss to Old Forge, so improving in that department will be key.

For Holy Cross, their depth and balance will be the defining factors. Their offense is firing on all cylinders, averaging 65 points per game, with a strong first and fourth-quarter showing. Players like Jake McHale, who has been making significant contributions in blocks, will be crucial in controlling the paint and denying Lakeland easy baskets.

Key Game Stats

• Points Per Game: Lakeland averages 46.5, while Holy Cross puts up 65.0.
• Rebounds: Lakeland is averaging 25.6 rebounds per game, while Holy Cross is more aggressive, averaging around 40.
• Assists and Steals: Both teams have had decent playmaking, with Lakeland averaging 10.1 assists per game and 8.8 steals. Holy Cross is likely to capitalize on defensive steals, averaging more per game.
• Defensive Key: Lakeland’s defense will need to step up, especially against Holy Cross’ high-scoring offense.

What’s at Stake

This game could be a turning point for both teams, as Lakeland looks to get back into the competitive race in the conference, while Holy Cross aims to maintain their momentum and continue their undefeated conference record. The performance in this game could set the tone for both teams as they head into the remainder of their schedules.

Conclusion

This January 9 matchup between Lakeland and Holy Cross is shaping up to be an exciting clash, with Holy Cross looking to continue their dominance, while Lakeland strives to find their footing. Both teams have key players who can take over the game, and fans should expect a high-intensity contest. As the game approaches, all eyes will be on how Lakeland manages to counter the offensive firepower of Holy Cross, and whether they can execute a game plan that leads to their first conference victory.