The Prince George (VA) varsity basketball team is playing a home conference game against Hopewell (VA) today at 7:15 PM.
Here’s what you need to know:
What: Virginia High School Basketball
Who: Hopewell vs Prince George
When: Friday, January 24, 2025
Time: 7:15. p.m. ET
Live stream: Watch here
Game Preview: Hopewell vs Prince George
The 2024-2025 Virginia high school basketball season has showcased some exciting matchups, but the stark contrast between Hopewell and Prince George’s teams is particularly evident. While Hopewell has excelled with a commanding 11-1 record, Prince George has faced significant struggles, currently sitting at 1-13. Let’s break down the season so far for both teams, taking a closer look at their performances, stats, and head-to-head encounters.
Hopewell’s Dominance
Hopewell High School’s basketball team has been a force to be reckoned with in the 2024-2025 season. With a near-perfect 11-1 overall record, the Blue Devils have displayed impressive consistency and teamwork across the board. Their performance in the Region has been nothing short of spectacular, boasting an undefeated 7-0 record. Their success can be attributed to a well-rounded team, solid defense, and efficient offense.
Key players like Deshawn Spellman, who leads the team with an average of 19.5 points per game, have been pivotal to Hopewell’s scoring success. The team averages 73.6 points per game, with a balanced scoring spread across all four quarters. Their aggressive approach on both ends of the floor is evident in their statistics, with 31.3 rebounds per game and 12.7 steals per game, both of which rank highly in comparison to most teams.
Hopewell’s resilience was also displayed in their head-to-head matchups against strong teams. On December 3, 2024, Hopewell crushed Prince George 84-43, with a dominant second half that sealed the win. Games against teams like Colonial Heights, Meadowbrook, and Matoaca also showcased their ability to perform under pressure, leading to victories by impressive margins.
Prince George’s Struggles
On the flip side, Prince George High School has faced a much more challenging season. With a 1-13 overall record, the Royals have struggled to find their rhythm in both their regional and non-league matchups. Their only win came against a non-league opponent, and they have yet to secure a victory within their region (0-8).
The Royals’ scoring average sits at 48.4 points per game, significantly lower than Hopewell’s, and their defense has struggled as well, allowing 883 points over the course of their 14 games. Their leading scorer, though not yet on the level of Hopewell’s top players, is making efforts to keep his team competitive, with Stephon Cherry contributing 5.3 rebounds per game.
Prince George’s recent performances, particularly against common opponents, further illustrate their struggles. They’ve faced losses to teams like Dinwiddie, Colonial Heights, and Thomas Dale by sizable margins, leaving them at a significant disadvantage as they head into the latter part of their season.
Head-to-Head Showdown: Hopewell Dominates
In their latest head-to-head meeting on December 3, 2024, Hopewell’s victory was dominant, finishing with an 84-43 scoreline. Despite a solid start by Prince George, Hopewell quickly took control, outscoring their opponents in every quarter. The Blue Devils’ offensive firepower, combined with a suffocating defense, made it nearly impossible for Prince George to mount any serious comeback.
Team Comparison: Key Stats
| Statistic | Hopewell (24-25) | Prince George (24-25) |
|---|---|---|
| Points per Game | 73.6 | 48.4 |
| Rebounds per Game | 31.3 | – |
| Assists per Game | 18.8 | – |
| Steals per Game | 12.7 | – |
| Blocks per Game | 3.6 | – |
Hopewell’s superior performance is clear in almost every statistical category. Their robust offense and strong defense are highlighted by their high points per game and ability to dominate the boards. Prince George, however, has yet to find a formula for success, struggling across both ends of the court.
Looking Ahead: Playoff Prospects
With their strong record, Hopewell is eyeing a potential deep run into the playoffs. Their undefeated regional record and overall team performance place them in a strong position to challenge the top teams in the state. In contrast, Prince George will need to find ways to break their losing streak and build momentum as they approach the second half of the season. Their upcoming games against teams like Dinwiddie and Matoaca could provide an opportunity for a turnaround.
Conclusion
The contrasting fortunes of Hopewell and Prince George this season are a testament to the unpredictable nature of high school basketball. While Hopewell continues to roll through the competition, Prince George’s season has been filled with growing pains. As both teams prepare for the rest of their schedules, it will be fascinating to see if Hopewell can maintain its dominance, and whether Prince George can turn its fortunes around. For now, the gap between these two teams is unmistakable, but basketball, as always, has room for surprises.
